Omnicom-IPG Merger: Wren taps Krakowsky as Co-president
By Seun Johnson
As Omnicom and Interpublic Group (IPG) move closer to finalizing their merger in 2025, attention appears to have shifted to the leadership structure and financial outlook of the joint entity.
In a recently released joint proxy statement, the merged company revealed that Omnicom Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Wren envisions IPG CEO Philippe Krakowsky as Co-President of the new institution.
According to the statement, IPG’s board successfully pushed for expanded responsibilities for Krakowsky, combining the roles of co-president and co-Chief Operating Officer, along with a seat on the board.
Under the new leadership arrangement, Krakowsky is expected to report directly to Wren which however raises questions about how their working relationship would play out, considering Wren’s long-standing leadership at Omnicom and Krakowsky’s influence in shaping IPG’s success. Both men were said to have had their relationship rooted during their time together at Omnicom in the 1990s.
According to the report, Krakowsky will secure a golden parachute currently valued at approximately $49 million if the deal eventually goes through. This substantial payout further explains the high stakes of the deal and the importance of securing his role within the new leadership structure.
In a report made available by Bradley Johnson, Numbers-oriented business journalist, both companies are anticipating a steady revenue growth from 2026 to 2029. While Omnicom is projecting a 4% annual revenue increase, IGP expects 3% annual net revenue growth.
If the deal is finalised, the merger, according to reports would make Omnicom the largest agency holding company based on 2023 earnings, surpassing WPP.
However, with regulatory approvals and integration plans still ongoing, attention is focusing on how Wren and Krakowsky will synergize their leadership styles to drive the future of the global advertising powerhouse.
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