Jon Cook. Illustration: Axios Visuals; Photo: Courtesy of VML
The longevity of VML can partly be attributed to embracing digital back in 1997, global CEO Jon Cook says — a decision made over BBQ. He dined with Kerry earlier this month for our "1 big meal" interview series.
Why it matters: Cook joined VML as the 28th employee in 1996 and was named CEO in 2011. WPP merged VML and Young & Rubicam in 2018, appointing him CEO of VMLY&R. Last year, WPP merged it with Wunderman Thompson. VML now has more than 30,000 employees.
