Grey Splits from AKQA, Moves Under Ogilvy

WPP has confirmed that Grey will be ‘realigning’ under Ogilvy, becoming a distinct entity from AKQA, the agency Grey merged with in 2020 for financial reporting purposes.

Grey will now report financially to Ogilvy, but will retain its brand name.

An internal memo sent to staff read that the Grey, AKQA, Ogilvy and WPP leaders believe that now is the time "to review reporting structures” and highlighted Grey’s “resurgence as a highly regarded and awarded powerhouse creative agency” as a natural impetus for bringing the agency under Ogilvy.

“Both Grey and Ogilvy believe in the power of creativity to solve business problems and deliver more impactful solutions for our clients, while AKQA has deepened its industry-leading innovation, design and technology capabilities,” said the memo. “We bring to Ogilvy Grey’s deep award-winning creative roots, famously effective brand-building ideas, high-performing leadership and talent who are winning business globally and locally.”

Just as in the AKQA network, Grey will operate as a standalone agency within the Ogilvy Group, with global Grey CEO Laura Maness reporting to Devika Bulchandani, Ogilvy's
global CEO.

AKQA was previously shaken up in October 2024, when former group CEO Ajaz Ahmed resigned – recently starting his own venture, Studio.One. The position is yet to be filled.