Nancy Hall has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of WPP Media U.S., the advertising giant announced Thursday, following a months-long search for a leader of the division. Hall’s promotion comes as WPP undergoes a significant restructuring and faces ongoing financial challenges.
Hall steps into the role after serving as Chief Client Officer at WPP Media U.S. For nine months. Prior to that, she was North America CEO at Mindshare, a WPP-owned media agency. Her nearly 25-year career includes leadership positions at Interpublic Group’s (IPG) Matterkind and Conversant, which was later acquired by Publicis, according to WPP.
“My priority is to accelerate our momentum through innovation—strengthening our data and technology foundation, deepening client impact and cultivating a culture where our teams are supported, challenged, and able to achieve their highest aspirations,” Hall said in a statement released by WPP. “When our people thrive, our clients do, too. I am committed to setting that standard in this next chapter.”
Brian Lesser, Global CEO of WPP Media, to whom Hall will report directly, expressed confidence in her appointment. He stated that Hall’s experience in data and technology aligns “perfectly with our strategic priorities across WPP,” and highlighted her commitment to employee development.
Hall’s appointment fills a vacancy left by Sharb Farjami, who departed the role in October 2025 after less than two years. Lesser had been serving as interim CEO of WPP Media U.S. Since Farjami’s exit.
The leadership change occurs amid a broader overhaul of WPP, announced last week. CEO Cindy Rose revealed plans to consolidate the company’s operations into four core divisions: WPP Media, WPP Creative, WPP Production, and WPP Enterprise Solutions. This restructuring is part of a $676 million annual cost-cutting initiative, responding to what have been described as the company’s worst financial results since the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, with further declines anticipated.
WPP has experienced significant client losses in recent years, including Coca-Cola, Mars, and Paramount, all of which moved their business to rival Publicis. The company also saw the departure of its seven-year CEO, Mark Read, and its stock price has been impacted by macroeconomic pressures and concerns surrounding the rise of artificial intelligence.
Several WPP Media clients have publicly voiced their support for Hall’s promotion. Ryu Yokoi, Unilever’s chief media and marketing capability officer for North America, described Hall as a “thoughtful and dedicated partner” who is “passionate about driving the best work for her clients.” Brad Audet, Mazda Americas’ chief marketing officer, praised Hall’s “tremendous insight and dedication” and her focus on consumer-centric strategies.
Hall’s appointment is effective immediately.
