Weber Shandwick CEO Susan Howe to retire September 2026; Pugliese named successor
Omnicom’s Weber Shandwick CEO Susan Howe will retire September 1, 2026 after nearly 30 years with the agency and a two-year tenure at the helm. Global President Karen Pugliese will succeed Howe on the same date to ensure continuity, while North America CEO Jim O’Leary will depart.
1. Retirement of Susan Howe
Susan Howe will retire as CEO of Weber Shandwick on September 1, 2026, concluding nearly three decades with the agency and a two-year tenure at the helm. Under her leadership, the agency earned PRWeek’s Global Agency of the Year, PRovoke’s Global Agency of the Decade and more than 250 Cannes Lions.
2. Appointment of Karen Pugliese
Global President Karen Pugliese will assume the CEO role on September 1, 2026. Pugliese has spent over 15 years at Weber Shandwick, with roles including Executive Vice President of the Consumer Practice, Chief of Staff to the CEO, Global Chief Growth Officer and Global President, driving business strategy and client relationships.
3. Transition and Client Continuity
Howe and Pugliese will work closely through a structured transition process to maintain stability for employees, clients and partners across Weber Shandwick’s global network. The plan emphasizes seamless handover of key accounts and ongoing integrated communications initiatives.
4. Departure of Jim O’Leary
Jim O’Leary, who serves as North America CEO and Global President, will depart on September 1, 2026 to pursue a new opportunity. His exit will prompt leadership realignment within the agency’s North America operations.