WPP announced the appointment of Kevin Johnson, CEO of GroupM Canada, as President of its business in Canada. A proven leader within the WPP network, Kevin brings a wealth of experience in media investment, marketing strategy and client leadership, having worked as the CEO of MediaCom Canada (now EssenceMediacom) for seven years prior to joining the GroupM executive team. Kevin will continue serving as GroupM Canada’s CEO while assuming his new WPP responsibilities.
In addition to his deep understanding of the Canadian media landscape, Kevin is recognized for his commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. Last year he was named Media Leader of the Year at the Annual Media Innovation Awards for his efforts to implement tangible diversity, equity and inclusion practices within GroupM and the wider industry.
Kevin Johnson succeeds Arthur Fleischmann, who has led WPP in Canada since 2021 and has overseen a period of significant client acquisition and expansion, strengthening WPP’s position as a leading marketing services company in Canada. Arthur will also step away from his role as group CEO of Ogilvy Canada as announced earlier this month.
Kevin Johnson, incoming WPP president in Canada, said, “It’s a privilege to step into this role and continue the momentum Arthur has built-in establishing WPP as a creative leader here in the market. I look forward to working alongside our talented teams across Canada to deliver innovative solutions for our clients.”
Mark Read, CEO of WPP, said, “I want to thank Arthur for his exceptional leadership and commitment to WPP over the last few years – we wish him the best. Canada is a very important market for WPP and one of our top ten worldwide. Kevin’s appointment reflects our continued commitment to strong leadership and growth in this dynamic country.”
Arthur Fleischmann added, “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished at WPP in Canada, and I am confident that Kevin is the right person to lead the team into the future. His strategic vision, industry expertise and dedication to our clients make him an ideal successor. I wish him every success in this new role.”
