Annick Maas's questions to WPP PLC (WPP) leadership • H1 2025
Question
Annick Maas of Bernstein questioned the implications of the interim dividend reset on future capital allocation strategy. She also asked about the impact of recent senior staff departures on client relationships and potential losses, and invited outgoing CEO Mark Read to reflect on what he would have done differently in his tenure.
Answer
CFO Joanne Wilson explained the dividend reduction provides financial flexibility and that future policy will be reviewed with the new CEO. She stated that staff turnover is not above historical levels and is not driving client losses, as relationships are institutional. CEO Mark Read reflected that he would have moved faster on key initiatives like integration and technology adoption, highlighting the simplification of WPP and the Satalia acquisition as major successes.