WPP names Devika Bulchandani as Chief Operating Officer

WPP has announced Devika Bulchandani as the Chief Operating Officer on Friday. Additionally, Laurent Ezekiel has been appointed Global CEO of Ogilvy Group and Executive Sponsor for WPP Open X (WPP’s bespoke agency team dedicated to The Coca-Cola Company) and Floriane Tripolino as CEO of WPP Open X.

As Chief Operating Officer, Devika Bulchandani will be responsible for commercialising services and solutions across the company to drive growth for its clients worldwide.

She will work closely alongside WPP agencies, leveraging their capabilities and geographical reach, overseeing the company’s Country Managers, global growth teams and Global Client Leaders.

Bulchandani’s most recent stint was with Ogilvy, diversifying the network’s client roster over four years.   

Meanwhile, Ezekiel will oversee the creative network’s global business, spanning integrated marketing capabilities that include advertising, PR, social & influence, customer engagement, consulting and health.

Ezekiel most recently served as CEO of WPP Open X for The Coca-Cola Company. Laurent has also led Open X’s solutions, such as Studio X. 

Tripolino, on the other hand, is expected to scale solutions such as Studio X, leveraging advanced data and AI capabilities to transform consumers.   

Speaking on the appointments, Cindy Rose, CEO of WPP, said, “These appointments underscore WPP’s commitment to delivering unparalleled value and innovation. Devika’s deep obsession with helping our clients grow and win will help us accelerate our growth across the entire WPP landscape. Laurent's close, successful partnership with The Coca-Cola Company and creation of WPP Open X give him valuable insight and experience to help navigate the needs of our largest clients, many of which are housed in Ogilvy. These leaders embody the strategic vision and creative excellence that define WPP. Their collective expertise will play a crucial part in helping me drive WPP to our next phase of growth and ensuring our clients continue to win in a rapidly evolving market.”

Bulchandani said,“I have been the luckiest person in the world to have the best job in the world as Ogilvy’s CEO - and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together as a team. Having partnered closely with Laurent, I've seen firsthand his unparalleled ability to drive growth and champion creative excellence. I can’t think of a better leader to partner with Liz Taylor, our Chief Creative Officer, and our leadership team to guide Ogilvy to even greater heights. As we all begin this next chapter at WPP, I'm energised by the immense potential ahead. I truly believe that when we seamlessly bring together WPP’s world-class capabilities, we become an invincible force, one that unlocks unparalleled value for our clients. I look forward to collaborating with Cindy and leaders across WPP to amplify that impact and drive even greater success for our partners."

Ezekiel, added, “It is an immense honour to lead the Ogilvy Group, an iconic network I deeply admire, one that was founded by a true pioneer in David Ogilvy, and that Devika has steered to unprecedented success with an exceptional leadership team that is leading the industry forward. I am eager to build on this incredible legacy - championing modern marketing and innovation to ensure Ogilvy continues to be the most creative and effective communications partner for brands worldwide. The future of Ogilvy is bright, and I’m thrilled to be a part of writing the next chapter of marketing history with our teams and clients.

Tripolino shared,"Stepping into the role as CEO of WPP Open X is an energising opportunity. The Coca-Cola Company is the house of multiple iconic brands and a cornerstone partner for WPP. I'm deeply honoured to join this talented team, ready to build on our strong foundation. I’m excited to work with Laurent in this next phase of our marketing transformation, ensuring our partnership continues to lead the industry and deliver truly impactful, future-forward work.”