As Adweek reports, WPP’s Grey Group promoted Michael Houston to worldwide CEO today.
The move comes as the agency celebrates 100 years in business. Houston’s predecessor, Jim Heekin, made the announcement in a memo circulated around the agency this morning. In the memo, he said the “well-deserved promotion will enable us to set the agenda for Grey’s future growth and competitiveness across the world.”
Heekin will immediately step into a role as executive chairman and “continue to work closely with Michael, our global management team and our clients to ensure a smooth transition and the agency’s ongoing success in the years ahead.”
Houston joined Grey as global CMO in 2007, became managing director of Grey New York in 2011 and was promoted to CEO of Grey North America two years later. Most recently, he has served as global president since February of 2016.
We’ve included Heekin’s full memo below.
One hundred years ago today, Grey opened its doors in New York.
The Centennial has been a time to reflect on our extraordinary journey and look to the future. As we celebrate our anniversary, and a decade of record growth and creative performance, the time is right for the elevation of a new generation.
I am delighted to announce that Michael Houston has been promoted to Worldwide Chief Executive Officer of Grey Group, effective immediately.
I will remain Executive Chairman of Grey Group and continue to work closely with Michael, our global management team and our clients to ensure a smooth transition and the agency’s ongoing success in the years ahead.
Michael and I have known each other for a decade. I respect him for his personal qualities and business achievements. It has been a pleasure to watch him grow to become one of our most dynamic and talented leaders. He has an innate ability to bring out the best in people, both his colleagues and clients alike.
Michael began at Grey in 2007 and quickly became a key player in the close-knit team that transformed our flagship New York office and our North American region into a creative and new business powerhouse with a winning spirit second to none. Recently, as Global President, he’s extended his leadership to our worldwide network, helping to fuel our culture of creativity and innovation. Please see the attached press release for further information.
This well-deserved promotion will enable us to set the agenda for Grey’s future growth and competitiveness across the world.
Not many advertising agencies survive let alone thrive to mark their Centennial. As we commemorate ours, I’m convinced Grey’s best days lie ahead.
Please give Michael your congratulations and full support as we open a bright new chapter in our history.
Regards,
Jim Heekin, Executive Chairman