Ogilvy APAC Leadership Changes as Kent Wertime Retires

In tandem with Kent’s retirement, Chris Reitermann will also be transitioning away from his role as Co-CEO of Ogilvy APAC

e4m by e4m Staff
Published: Jun 18, 2026 12:50 PM  | 3 min read
Ogilvy APAC Leadership Changes as Kent Wertime Retires
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  • Ogilvy announced leadership changes as Kent Wertime prepares for retirement at the end of June, stepping down from his roles as Co-CEO of Ogilvy Asia Pacific, Global Chief Operating Officer, and Global CEO of Ogilvy One.
  • Chris Reitermann will transition from Co-CEO of Ogilvy APAC to focus on his role as CEO of WPP Greater China, continuing to drive growth and integration.
  • Kent Wertime, who joined Ogilvy in 1999 and has been a pivotal figure in the agency's digital transformation, will have his successors for global leadership roles announced later.
  • Both leaders received praise for their contributions, with Laurent Ezekiel recognizing their impact on Ogilvy APAC's growth and Chris Reitermann expressing confidence in the regional team's future success.

Ogilvy has announced key leadership changes across its global and Asia Pacific operations as senior executives prepare for new transitions.

Kent Wertime, one of the agency's longest-serving leaders, will retire at the end of June. He is stepping down from his positions as Co-CEO of Ogilvy Asia Pacific, Global Chief Operating Officer of Ogilvy, and Global CEO of Ogilvy One.

At the same time, Chris Reitermann will move on from his role as Co-CEO of Ogilvy APAC to focus fully on his responsibilities as CEO of WPP Greater China, where he will continue leading growth and integration efforts.

Kent and Chris have jointly led Ogilvy's Asia Pacific business since 2016. During their tenure, they guided the network through a period of significant growth, digital transformation, and changing market dynamics across the region.

Following Kent's retirement, Ogilvy will announce successors for his global leadership roles at a later date. Until then, the agency's regional leadership team will take over APAC responsibilities and work closely with local market leaders to ensure smooth operations and continued collaboration across the network.

Kent joined Ogilvy in 1999 as CEO of Ogilvy Interactive Asia Pacific and played a major role in driving the agency's early digital transformation efforts. Over the years, he took on several regional and global leadership positions, becoming one of the most influential figures within the organisation. In addition to his corporate achievements, he is widely recognised for his contributions as a mentor, writer, and advocate of technology and culture.

Laurent Ezekiel, Global CEO of Ogilvy, praised Kent's contribution to the company, describing him as a visionary leader whose impact has been felt across the organisation and among clients worldwide. He thanked Kent for his years of service, leadership, and mentorship, and wished him success in retirement.

Ezekiel also acknowledged Chris Reitermann's contributions, noting that under the joint leadership of Chris and Kent, Ogilvy APAC became a strong creative and business powerhouse. He added that WPP Greater China would continue to benefit from Chris's leadership and expertise.

Reflecting on his retirement, Kent Wertime said it had been a privilege to help lead the agency across both regional and global markets. He expressed gratitude to his colleagues, clients, and the wider Ogilvy network, while also thanking Chris for a decade-long partnership built on trust, collaboration, and friendship.

Chris Reitermann described his time leading Ogilvy APAC alongside Kent as a rewarding experience. He said their partnership was based on strong mutual respect and friendship, and expressed pride in what they had achieved together. He also said he was confident that the Asia Pacific business would continue to thrive under the leadership of the regional team and wished Kent the very best for his retirement.

Published On: Jun 18, 2026 12:50 PM