LONDON – Global marketing and communications giant WPP has announced the appointment of Peter Agnefjäll as a Non-Executive Director, effective May 11, 2026. The former IKEA Group CEO joins the board at a critical juncture as the company executes its “Elevate28” growth strategy.
Agnefjäll, a seasoned retail veteran, will also serve as a member of WPP’s Audit Committee.
Global Leadership & Retail Expertise
Agnefjäll brings decades of international experience in consumer-centric transformation. His career is highlighted by a long tenure at IKEA, where he rose from a graduate trainee in 1995 to CEO and President (2013–2017). During his leadership, he was credited with spearheading the brand’s omnichannel expansion and modernizing its distribution formats.
Notable Board Experience:
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Ahold Delhaize: Served as Chair of the Supervisory Board (2021–2025).
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Orkla ASA: Director for an industrial investment firm focused on consumer brands.
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Wizz Air & Deichmann SE: Former non-executive and advisory roles.
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ERM: Current member of the Council on Sustainability Transformation.
Strategic Alignment
The appointment is seen as a move to bolster WPP’s expertise in navigating complex, evolving consumer behaviors. Philip Jansen, Chair of WPP, noted that Agnefjäll’s background in operational excellence will be instrumental as the firm integrates data and technology to drive growth.
Agnefjäll stated he is “honored” to join during this “exciting transformation phase,” emphasizing that WPP’s fusion of creativity and technology is key to opening new avenues for clients.

