UM UK and Ireland chief executive Rachel Forde has announced that she is leaving the agency at the end of the year to ‘reset’ before her next move.
Forde has been the creative agency’s leader for the past four-and-a-half years.
Prior to joining UM, Forde spent two decades working for Publicis Groupe and was also the UK chief executive of Spark Foundry.
UM EMEA president Chris Skinner will replace Forde on an interim basis until a replacement is found.
During her time at UM the chief exec worked with clients Just Eat, American Express and Purple Bricks, and introduced programmes such as UM’s Better World Marketplace, Futureproof Academy and a partnership with UN Women’s Unstereotype Alliance.
Joining UM in 2018, Forde led the agency through the pandemic and aided its growth, reaching estimated billings of £273 million.
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“When I came to UM, my goal was to put UM back on the map,” she added.
“With the support of a brilliant team, I am confident that I have done that, as well as developing a company culture that is inclusive, empowering and pioneering.
“I have always championed the idea that diversity of thought brings about progress and positive change. We have built a brilliant foundation for the next trajectory of growth, and, whilst I will miss UM dearly, it’s time for me to embrace my next challenge, too. It’s how we keep growing; applying all the lessons we’ve learnt along the way.”
IPG Mediabrands UK and Ireland agency group chief executive Richard Morris added: “She is a leader who cares deeply, breaks down barriers and one who believes in the value of culture to create business transformation.
“Her leadership, energy and ambition has helped UM grow at a market-leading rate over the last four years; something of which she can be rightly proud. We wish her nothing but the best as she embraces her next challenge.”
