WPP Scangroup Plc, a listed marketing and communications firm, has announced a leadership change after Chief Executive Officer Patricia Ithau stepped down at the end of her contract.
- •Her three-year tenure focused on corporate restructuring and operational changes.
- •Chief Operating Officer Miriam Kaggwa takes over as interim leader while the Board searches for a permanent CEO.
- •Kaggwa, who joined in 2023, brings extensive experience to her new role, with over two decades as a finance leader across global marketing communications powerhouses, including BCW (Burson), IPG Mediabrands, McCann Worldgroup, and Energy BBDO.
In May of this year, the company’s flagship agency, Ogilvy Africa, lost a 15-year contract with Airtel Africa, a significant blow disclosed by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA). The termination marked the end of one of Africa’s longest-standing advertising relationships.
Challenging Financial Performance
The leadership change follows continued financial pressures. WPP Scangroup posted a KSh 507.6 million net loss for 2024, reversing a KSh 133.3 million profit from 2023. A KSh 248.8 million foreign exchange loss and a 23.6% revenue drop to KSh 2.44 billion drove this decline, reflecting accounting changes and client losses.
The loss of the Airtel Africa account, which ended a 15-year relationship with Ogilvy Africa, dealt a major blow. The company also exited underperforming units as part of restructuring efforts.
Operational Restructuring and Market Response
WPP Scangroup maintained strong liquidity, with cash reserves rising by 84% to KSh 2.14 billion by the end of 2024. To address market shifts, the company launched new products like OBrio, a marketing impact tool, and WPP Open, an AI-powered campaign platform.
Public criticism followed the company’s attempt to blame youth protests in Kenya for poor results. Ongoing legal action from founding CEO Bharat Thakrar, who claims reputational damage and lost business opportunities, has further strained the company’s image.
Global Parent Facing Similar Challenges
These struggles reflect broader industry pressures. Parent company WPP Plc expects a 3-5% revenue decline in 2025, citing economic uncertainty and tighter client budgets. However, WPP retained creative prestige by winning Creative Company of the Year at Cannes Lions 2025.
