AKQA founder and CEO resigns
Vella, left
The founder and CEO of WPP’s AKQA Group, Ajaz Ahmed, has announced his resignation.
After 30 years as CEO, Ahmed has decided to step away “to do something new”.
WPP acquired AKQA in 2012, and since 2020, it has operated alongside sister agency Grey within the AKQA Group. Earlier this year, AKQA absorbed the Grey operations across five studios, including Australia.
Ajaz Ahmed (right) with AKQA’s APAC managing partner, Brian Vella
“Serving AKQA’s team, clients and values over the past 30 years has been the greatest honour of my life. Founding AKQA at a young age was the start of an incredible journey, and if destiny allows, I look forward to another 30 years of meaningful work and making a difference,” Ahmed said.
“I’m tremendously energised about the adventures ahead and the opportunity to do something new.”
AKQA built a strong reputation as a leading innovation agency, and under Ahmed’s leadership, it won various Agency of the Year awards 83 times. It also recently won 11 Most Loved Workplace awards, highlighting the positive employee culture fostered by Ahmed.
Mark Read, CEO of WPP, said: “Under Ajaz’s leadership AKQA has become one of the world’s most recognised and highly regarded agencies.
“It’s a brilliant business with many extremely talented people around the world. With its exceptional global team, capabilities and expertise, AKQA is well-positioned for continued success and we thank Ajaz for his vision and contribution to the business.”
A further announcement regarding Ahmed’s successor will be made in due course.
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