Major leadership changes are shaking up some of the world's biggest companies in 2025. WPP has appointed Cindy Rose as its new CEO, Apple is preparing for COO Jeff Williams' retirement with Sabih Khan stepping in, and Diageo's CEO Alison Crew has stepped down amid financial challenges. These shifts raise questions about what’s next for these giants and how these changes could impact investors, employees, and the future of these companies. Below, we explore the key details and what they mean for you.
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Who is the new CEO at WPP?
Cindy Rose, a former Microsoft executive, has been appointed as the new CEO of WPP, starting September 1, 2025. She brings a strong background in technology and digital transformation, aiming to steer WPP through AI-driven changes and recent client losses.
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Why did Apple change its leadership?
Apple's COO Jeff Williams is retiring later this year, with Sabih Khan set to succeed him. This leadership shift occurs as Apple continues to focus on operational efficiency and innovation, with Tim Cook maintaining his role as CEO to ensure stability during the transition.
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What led to Diageo's CEO stepping down?
Diageo's CEO Alison Crew resigned immediately amid a challenging financial year, which included a sales drop and the impact of new US tariffs costing around $150 million annually. CFO Nik Jhangiani is acting as interim leader while the company works on cost-saving measures.
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How might these leadership changes affect the companies' futures?
These leadership shifts could signal strategic changes, especially at WPP and Diageo, where new leaders aim to navigate economic pressures and technological disruptions. For Apple, the leadership transition is more about maintaining stability as the company continues to innovate under Tim Cook.
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What do these changes mean for investors and employees?
Investors might see these leadership changes as a sign of strategic realignment, potentially affecting stock performance. Employees could experience shifts in company culture or priorities, especially at WPP and Diageo, where new leadership aims to address recent challenges and position the companies for future growth.
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Are there any other major leadership changes happening in 2025?
Yes, 2025 has seen several significant leadership transitions across global corporations, driven by economic pressures, technological shifts, and strategic realignments. These changes reflect a broader trend of companies adapting to a rapidly evolving business landscape.