WPP Media has moved decisively to strengthen its Latin America business by appointing seasoned media executive Andrea Suarez as Chief Executive Officer for the region.

With this move, the media network signals a renewed focus on regional growth, client leadership, and operational depth across key Latin American markets.

Deep Experience Shapes the Appointment

Before joining WPP Media, Suarez built a long and influential career at IPG Mediabrands, where she spent 16 years in senior leadership roles. During that period, she steadily rose through the ranks, ultimately serving as global Chief Executive Officer of UM for two years.

In that role, she drove global strategy, sharpened client relationships, and steered the agency through an increasingly complex media landscape.

A Track Record of Client Centric Leadership

Earlier in her career, Suarez led Thrive, a bespoke agency unit within UM created specifically to serve Nestlé. In that capacity, she managed one of the world’s most demanding global client relationships, aligning media strategy closely with business performance.

Additionally, she previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Mediabrands in Latin America, where she developed a strong understanding of regional market dynamics, talent development, and local client needs.

Leadership Transition After Long Service

Suarez takes over from Cesar Recalde, who is stepping away from the role after 15 years in the business. Notably, Recalde spent 12 of those years shaping WPP Media’s operations across Latin America.

During his tenure, the company expanded its regional footprint and strengthened its client base, laying the groundwork for the next phase of growth.

Part of a Broader Executive Refresh

At the same time, Suarez’s appointment fits into a wider leadership refresh underway at WPP Media. In recent months, the group has brought in several senior executives to reinforce its global and regional teams.

Angela Steele joined as US Chief Client Officer, while Stephanie Prager stepped into the role of Global Client President. Both executives previously held senior positions at Publicis, further diversifying WPP Media’s leadership bench.

Positioning for the Next Growth Phase

Through these appointments, WPP Media continues to recalibrate its leadership structure to meet evolving client demands and competitive pressures.

By placing an executive with deep regional knowledge and global experience at the helm of Latin America, the company aims to accelerate growth, deepen client partnerships, and sharpen execution across one of its most important markets.

As WPP Media navigates a rapidly shifting media and marketing environment, Suarez’s leadership is expected to play a central role in shaping the group’s Latin America strategy and performance in the years ahead.