# Jon Cook Steps Down After 30 Years at VML

> Jon Cook hands VML to best friend Eric Campbell after 30 years.
- Title: Jon Cook Steps Down After 30 Years at VML · Adweek | Shortify
- Summary: Jon Cook hands VML to best friend Eric Campbell after 30 years. Jon Cook steps down as VML CEO after 30 years to pursue new challenges, handing leadership to…
- Keywords: jon cook, vml, eric campbell, wpp creative, global ceo, north america ceo, 30 years, agency transition, leadership handover, Jon, Cook, Steps
- Source: Adweek — https://adweek.com/agencies/jon-cook-on-30-years-at-vml-and-handing-the-agency-over-to-his-best-friend
- Author: Christopher Cicchiello
- Published: 2026-10-05T10:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: jon cook, vml, eric campbell, wpp creative, global ceo, north america ceo, 30 years, agency transition, leadership handover
## Jon Cook's 30-Year VML Journey
Jon Cook spent 30 years building VML from its 1992 startup days through mergers and acquisitions.
## Handing Over to Eric Campbell
Cook hands VML to his best friend Eric Campbell, who becomes global CEO while keeping his North America role.
## Why Cook Steps Down
Cook says WPP and VML are in solid shape after a turnaround under new CEO Cindy Rose, and he wants new challenges.
## Cook's Personal Motivation
Cook hit 30 years in the company and 30 years married, living in the same house, so he wants a change.
## Campbell's Leadership Strength
Campbell thrives under pressure and balances challenging work, making him a massive problem solver for clients and staff.
## Cook's Pride in VML
Cook is proud of VML's sustained relevancy through bold decisions, risks, and staying relevant for 30 years.
## Key takeaway

Jon Cook steps down as VML CEO after 30 years to pursue new challenges, handing leadership to long-time friend Eric Campbell.