DDB promotes NY head Wendy Clark to worldwide CEO
Omnicom Group president and chief executive officer (CEO) John Wren announced the promotion of Wendy Clark to president and CEO of DDB Worldwide. Clark, who rises from the position of DDB North America CEO, succeeds Chuck Brymer, who will now assume the title of chairman.
DDB North America CEO Wendy Clark has been promoted to oversee DDB Worldwide, announced Omnicom's John Wren / DDB
Clark joined DDB in 2016 from Coca-Cola North America, where she was president, sparkling brands and strategic marketing. Before joining Coke in 2008, she was senior vice president, advertising for AT&T.
Under Clark's leadership of DDB's North America offices, the agency has grown by enhancing existing relationships such as State Farm, Mars, and Johnson & Johnson, as well as a strong new business track record. Most notably, Clark was instrumental in winning the consolidated US creative account for McDonald’s in 2016 that led to the formation of the dedicated agency unit, We Are Unlimited.
Clark was also instrumental in launching one of DDB's talent and inclusion initiatives, Talent Has No Gender, which had launched on International Women's Day in 2016.
Byrmer has been given added responsibilities within Omnicom Group, and will continue to serve DDB. “After 12 terrific years as the head of DDB, I am excited to hand the baton to Wendy,” he said. “She is passionate about our business and clients, and has proven to be an inspiring leader for our company. I look forward to helping Wendy continue to foster an environment where our people can do their best work.”
Commenting on her new position, Clark said: “I’ve loved every minute of the last two years with our DDB North America team and clients creating the resurgence of this majestic, important agency. To now have the opportunity to follow Chuck’s legacy of leadership and work with our global teams and clients is both humbling and exciting.”
John Wren added: “At Omnicom, we recognize the importance of succession planning, and Chuck and I knew that Wendy would be the right person to take the helm of DDB. Her experience leading DDB North America coupled with her expertise as a leading marketer makes this a seamless leadership transition that will build upon DDB’s capabilities and reputation as a leader in the business."