Weber Shandwick announced that CEO Susan Howe will retire from the Omnicom Public Relations agency on September 1, 2026, after nearly three decades in the industry. Karen Pugliese, currently serving as the agency's Global President, will succeed Howe as CEO on the same date.

Howe has served as CEO since 2024 and will work closely with Pugliese during the transition to ensure continuity for employees, clients and partners, according to a company statement.

"Susan has led this agency with vision and integrity, and she leaves the agency exceptionally well positioned for the future," said Chris Foster, CEO of Omnicom Public Relations. "Karen Pugliese is a deeply respected leader with a strong command of the business, our clients and our people."

Under Howe's leadership, Weber Shandwick received recognition including PRWeek's Global Agency of the Year, PRovoke's Global Agency of the Decade and more than 250 Cannes Lions awards. Howe oversaw the expansion of the agency's capabilities through Weber I/O, Weber Advisory and Weber Create.

Pugliese has worked at Weber Shandwick for more than 15 years in various leadership roles, including Executive Vice President of the Consumer Practice, Chief of Staff to the CEO, Global Chief Growth Officer and Global President. She has overseen the agency's business strategy and innovation agenda and led key client relationships.

The agency also announced that Jim O'Leary, Chief Executive Officer for North America and Global President, is departing to pursue a new opportunity.

Weber Shandwick is part of Omnicom Public Relations, a capability of Omnicom Group (NYSE: OMC).