Mel Edwards, Global President of VML, to retire in spring 2026

Mel Edwards, Global President of VML, has announced her decision to retire after a three-decade career in advertising, including 13 years at WPP. In a note shared on LinkedIn, Edwards said, “Well, it’s official… the news is out that I’m retiring. I’ve decided to hang up my VML hat after 13 years at WPP, and 30 years in the industry.” She added that this was not a sudden exit but a planned transition, with her remaining in the role for a few more months. “Between now and then, I’ll be handing over to my amazing friend and VML partner in crime, Jon Cook,” she wrote.

VML also paid tribute to Edwards in a statement, thanking her for her leadership and announcing that she will formally step down in Spring 2026. “Her legacy of client success, inclusion and creative excellence will continue to inspire us for years to come. Here’s to the next chapter, Mel,” the agency said.

Edwards’ career spans some of the most transformative years in modern advertising. She began her journey at agencies such as TBWA and M&C Saatchi’s LIDA, where she rose to the position of CEO. In 2012, she joined Wunderman as UK CEO, before becoming CEO for the EMEA region in 2015 and then Global CEO in 2018. Following WPP’s merger of Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R in late 2023 to create VML, Edwards took on the role of Global President alongside Global CEO Jon Cook.

Over the years, Edwards has been credited with steering large-scale integration projects, expanding client relationships, and fostering a culture rooted in creativity and collaboration. Under her leadership, Wunderman Thompson and later VML have won major creative awards, including multiple Cannes Lions, and were recognised for combining brand and customer experience at scale.

Her departure marks the end of a significant era for WPP’s global creative network. Edwards’ partnership with Cook helped define the shape of the newly merged VML, which officially began operations in January 2024. Her steady leadership through this period of change ensured continuity for global clients and teams as VML repositioned itself as one of the largest integrated marketing agencies in the world.

Reflecting on her journey, Edwards said she feels “proud to have been part of this amazing industry and to have worked with such amazing people,” adding that she leaves the industry “but takes with me friends for life.” As she prepares for her next chapter, the industry will remember her as a leader who combined operational rigour with genuine warmth and an instinct for transformation.

Her planned exit also comes at a time when VML continues to strengthen its presence in high-growth markets such as India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Industry observers note that the succession, led by Cook, is expected to maintain strategic continuity while opening space for new leadership voices to emerge within the global network.

Edwards’ farewell note ended on a fittingly personal tone: “Here’s to the next chapter, but not before a good few glasses are raised in this one.” For the thousands of colleagues and clients who have worked with her, that toast will mark both celebration and gratitude for one of advertising’s most respected leaders.