OMD creates global COO role, promotes internally

OMD has appointed Ellen Griffin to the newly created role of president and global chief operating officer in a move designed to get ahead of escalating client complexity.

While chief operating officers have historically focused on internal efficiencies, OMD is betting that future growth depends on having a C-suite leader dedicated to architecting external solutions—connecting disparate capabilities across the entire Omnicom network to give clients a functional, competitive edge.

“Earlier this year, OMD made a bold new promise: We create what’s next,” said OMD Worldwide CEO George Manas. “With this new role, we’re delivering on that promise by building solutions that tap into Omnicom’s full advantage across media, data, CRM, commerce, content, and creativity. Ellen brings the vision and operational leadership to help our clients win in an increasingly complex and challenging business environment."

Griffin, who was promoted from global chief client solutions officer, has a track record aligned with the new role’s mandate. She was instrumental in designing custom client solutions powered by Omnicom’s marketing intelligence platform, Omni, a strategy credited with helping secure over $2.5 billion in net new business wins for the agency.

The appointment comes as OMD continues to rack up industry accolades, holding its fourth-place in the 2024 global new-business ranking with over $1.7 billion in billings and clinching Media Network of the Year at Cannes Lions for the third time in four years.

Griffin herself frames the role as a direct response to market-wide pressure felt by even the most sophisticated advertisers.

“In a time of accelerated disruption, even the most seasoned marketers are challenged to keep pace,” Griffin stated. “This role is about accelerating and scaling transformation—ensuring OMD delivers the expertise, tools, and operating models that give our clients a competitive edge today and resilience for tomorrow.”

Reporting directly to Manas, her appointment is effective immediately.