FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2 November 2026
WPP plc ("WPP")
Results of Annual General Meeting on 8 May 2026 - Update Statement
At the WPP plc (LSE/NYSE: WPP) Annual General Meeting ("AGM") on 8 May 2026, Resolution 3 (Compensation Committee Report) and Resolution 4 (Directors' Compensation Policy) received 75.84% and 74.92% of the votes cast in favour respectively, less than the 80% support level identified in the UK Corporate Governance Code. As a result, over the past few months, WPP has engaged with those major shareholders who did not support the resolutions to understand the reasons behind their voting decisions.
The feedback from these discussions focussed primarily on the qualitative nature of the underpin on the restricted share awards under the hybrid long-term incentive, together with the base salary of the incoming CEO Cindy Rose, compared to that of her predecessor.
As reported in our 2025 Compensation Committee Report, detailed consideration was given to the design of the underpin during the Policy shareholder consultation process, which included shareholders representing over 80% of the register. The Board determined that a qualitative rather than quantitative underpin was appropriate, enabling the assessment of performance in the round at the end of the vesting period, given the transformation being undertaken, focus on strategic delivery, and wider practice in our key talent markets. The Board will ensure that there is clear disclosure provided to shareholders at the end of the period on the factors considered before the restricted share awards are released.
The Board carefully considered the incoming CEO's compensation package on her appointment. It recognised that the salary was at a premium to her predecessor but was required to secure a high-calibre candidate from the technology sector.
The Board is grateful to all shareholders that engaged with it during both consultation processes and values all feedback received. WPP is committed to maintaining constructive and positive relationships with its shareholders and their advisors and will continue to engage as appropriate going forward.
Balbir Kelly-Bisla
Company Secretary
Further information
Media: press@wpp.com
Investors: irteam@wpp.com
About WPP
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company - powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit wpp.com.
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