Global holding group WPP has appointed Philip Jansen to its board as a non-executive director and chairman-designate. He will join the board on 16 September.

The move will see Jansen officially replace Roberto Quarta as the firm’s non-executive chairman from 1 January 2025. The former BT boss has been in consideration for the role since at least January this year.

Prior to holding the CEO role at telecoms giant BT Group, where he worked from 2019 to February this year, Jansen had also led payments group Worldpay through the UK’s largest-ever fintech IPO.

“Technology is changing the face of commerce, media and communications, and I am very excited to join a company at the forefront of this change,” Jansen said.

“I look forward to working with my fellow board members and supporting Mark and his leadership team as they continue to transform WPP for the future.”

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Having served as chairman since 2015 and as executive chairman since April 2018 upon Sir Martin Sorrell’s resignation. Jansen’s appointment’s ends a protracted waiting period for Quarta, who had first announced his intention to step down last year.

WPP CEO, Mark Read added: “On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Roberto for his support for the leadership team and his exceptional contribution during more than nine years with WPP.

“He has helped to steer the company through significant challenges including the Covid-19 pandemic, overseen the restructuring of our portfolio to return WPP to financial stability, and guided the fundamental reshaping of our offer to meet the needs of modern marketing.”

He continued: “Philip has deep insight into our industry from his marketing background and roles with technology and consumer goods companies, and I am very happy to welcome him to WPP.”