WPP appoints Group M global CEO following Christian Juhl’s departure

Brian Lesser has been appointed global chief executive officer (CEO) of Group M, while Christian Juhl will step down to take up a new role at WPP later this year.

Lesser will return to Group M in September as CEO after seven years away in various roles.

He currently serves as Chairman of the Board and CEO of data platform InfoSum and previously served as CEO of Group M North America from 2015 to 2017.

After five years in the role, Juhl will step down to become president of corporate development at WPP.

WPP CEO Mark Read thanked Juhl for his contribution “to the success of Essence, Group M, WPP” over the past nine years, reflecting his leadership at Essence prior to its merger with MediaCom.

Speaking about Lesser’s appointment, he added: “Brian is one of the most respected executives in the industry, with a proven track record of success in data-driven and technology-driven marketing. Group M, its agencies and its brilliant people are, in many ways, the engine that powers WPP.

“Brian not only knows Group M inside and out, but he also has a strong vision for the future of the company. We are pleased to welcome him back to WPP.”

This article was originally published on Campaign UK.