R/GA founder, Bob Greenberg, has decided to step down from his position as chief executive officer of R/GA after 40 years and has chosen his successor. Sean Lyons will become global chief executive officer on January 2 2019.

It is the first time that the CEO role will be filled by someone other its founder. Greenberg (pictured above) founded R/GA in 1977 with his brother Richard.

“I could not be happier to have found both a partner and future successor in Sean,” stated Greenberg.

“In his eleven years with R/GA, Sean has proven himself to be a strong leader who is equal parts technologist, producer, and creative. I have every confidence that he will successfully guide the next generation of talent at R/GA and that together, they will chart a bright future.”

Sean Lyons

Greenberg will continue to serve as the company’s executive chairman will remain an active member of the company through 2020. During that time, he will support Lyons and ensure that every office in the network is able to deliver the innovative work the agency for which the company has become famous. Greenberg will also be a leading voice for R/GA at major industry events and with the media. He will continue to report to Michael Roth, chairman and chief executive officer of R/GA parent company, IPG.

Roth commented, “Bob is an icon. The work he and his team have done at R/GA has helped to define the future of advertising. Bob has pointed us to a place where we don’t just tell stories, we invent new businesses. Under his leadership, R/GA created some of the world’s most awarded and innovative work, and assembled a leadership team that’s the envy of the industry. Which is why we have someone as talented as Sean ready to lead this company, partnering with Stephen and Barry to ensure R/GA continues to set the highest bar possible,” added Michael Roth.

Lyons will run the global R/GA network and lead the global executive team, drive integration of talent and capabilities across offices and regions, and oversee all company financials. He will report directly to Michael Roth.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to lead one of the most creative and innovative companies out there,” Lyons stated.

“R/GA is a special place. We are built to continuously evolve and filled with an incredibly talented staff around the globe. I thank Bob for his trust and confidence in me and with the leadership team we have in place I know we will continue to help our clients transform and thrive.

Long-serving R/GA admen, Barry Wacksman and Stephen Plumlee, have been elevated to vice chairmen. Plumlee, who has been with the company for over 20 years, will continue to serve as the global COO and managing partner of R/GA Ventures. Wacksman, who has also been with the company for 20 years, will continue in his role as global chief strategy officer.