WPP adds Microsoft CEO to board

Advertising firm WPP has added Microsoft's UK chief executive Cindy Rose to its board in order to help it deal with the challenges of an ever-changing sector.

WPP's appointment of Rose, who took over Microsoft's British operations back in 2016, comes after the FTSE 100 resident lost more than half of its value in 2018 as clients cut spending and moved towards more direct relationships with the likes of Google and Facebook.

Rose will join WPP as a non-executive director and a member of its audit committee on 1 April.

Chairman Roberto Quarta said: "Cindy is one of the most admired and respected figures in the technology industry, and we are delighted to welcome her to the WPP board.

"Her deep understanding of the role of technology in business transformation will be invaluable as the executive team implements its new strategy for growth."

Rose added: "WPP has set out a bold new vision for its future as a creative transformation company, with a commitment to invest in talent, technology and culture.

"I look forward to supporting the team and making a contribution at such an exciting and important moment in the company's development."

As of 0910 GMT, WPP shares had inched ahead 0.33% to 857.80p.