Ogilvy names its former North American boss as new Global CEO

She will also join WPP’s Executive Committee. WPP is the British-based multinational communications company that owns Ogilvy, Wunderman Thompson, Kantar and others.

Bulchandani most recently served as Global President and CEO of Ogilvy North America. She takes the helm from Andy Main, who is stepping down as Global CEO and will serve as a Senior Advisor to Ogilvy until the end of the year.

“Devika is a champion of creativity who brings passion, purpose, and an uncompromising focus on generating impact to everything she does,” said Mark Read, CEO of parent company WPP. 

A deep understanding of clients’ needs

“In partnership with Andy and Liz Taylor, she has been instrumental in Ogilvy’s recent growth and development. Her love for our industry, deep understanding of clients’ needs, and track record of delivering growth for agencies and brands, make her the perfect choice to lead Ogilvy to even greater success.”

Commented Bulchandani: “David Ogilvy changed the industry 74 years ago when he founded this iconic agency. As we write the next chapter in the history books of Ogilvy, we will do it together with our clients, using creativity to push the boundaries of what’s possible. I am honoured and humbled to take on this role, and to do it with all our incredibly talented people all over the world.”

Prior to joining Ogilvy, she spent 26 years at McCann in various leadership roles including President of McCann North America.

Next month she will be honoured by New York Women in Communications (NYWIC) at the 2022 Matrix Awards, which honours women who are making a difference, building community and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in their field. 

Indian-born Bulchandani is the latest in a slew of Indian-origin executives taking leadership roles in global multinationals. Last week, coffee giant Starbucks appointed Laxman Narasimhan as its Chief Executive.