Prime Highlights

WPP Scangroup has announced the appointment of Akua Owusu-Nartey as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective November 17, 2025. The leadership change is being viewed as a strategic move to strengthen the company’s presence and influence across the African continent.

Industry observers see this appointment as a signal of WPP Scangroup’s commitment to locally rooted leadership with a global outlook, especially at a time when Africa’s advertising and communications markets are rapidly evolving.

Key Facts

Akua Owusu-Nartey will assume the CEO role from November 17, 2025.

• WPP Scangroup operates across multiple African markets, offering advertising, media, and marketing communications services.

• The appointment comes amid increased investment and digital transformation across Africa’s creative and media industries.

• Owusu-Nartey brings extensive experience in leadership, strategy, and brand development within emerging markets.

Background

WPP Scangroup is part of the global WPP network and has long played a significant role in shaping advertising and marketing communications across Africa. Over the years, the company has focused on blending global best practices with deep local insights to serve multinational and regional clients.

Akua Owusu-Nartey has built a reputation as a leader who understands both the cultural diversity and economic potential of African markets. Her career spans senior roles that required navigating complex market dynamics while driving growth and innovation.

What it Means

The appointment reflects a broader trend among multinational firms to empower leaders who possess strong regional understanding. For WPP Scangroup, this move reinforces confidence in African leadership at the highest level and highlights the continent’s growing importance within global marketing strategies.

It also sends a message to clients and partners that the company intends to remain agile, culturally relevant, and growth-oriented in a competitive communications landscape.

Outlook & Consideration

As CEO, Owusu-Nartey will be expected to guide WPP Scangroup through ongoing digital shifts, evolving consumer behavior, and increasing demand for data-driven creativity. Her leadership will likely focus on strengthening local talent, expanding integrated service offerings, and deepening client relationships across Africa.

If successful, this transition could position WPP Scangroup as a leading example of how global networks can thrive by placing regional expertise at the center of their growth strategy.