KAREN BLACKETT OBE

Karen Blackett OBE is a distinguished business leader and advocate for diversity, recognised for her exceptional ability to drive growth and cultivate inclusive work environments.

Beginning her media career in 1993, Karen quickly ascended to leadership roles, culminating in her appointment as Chairwoman of MediaCom UK & Ireland in 2016. Under her leadership as CEO, MediaCom was named Campaign’s Agency of the Year in both 2013 and 2014.

In 2018, Karen was appointed UK Country Manager for WPP, and later took on roles as CEO of GroupM UK and WPP UK President. Her commitment to diversity is evident in her initiatives, including the creation of an Apprenticeship Scheme and her work as a founding trustee of the Black Equity Organisation.

Karen’s achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including an OBE for services to Media and Communications, and recognition as one of Britain’s 100 Most Influential Black People, where she was ranked number one in 2015. She also serves as Chancellor of the University of Portsmouth and as a Non-Executive Director of the UK Cabinet Office.