DDB Global CEO Alex Lubar departs amid uncertainty over network’s fate post-merger
After more than three years at the helm of DDB Worldwide, Alex Lubar is stepping down as Global CEO to become CEO of Fundamentalco, a New York–based independent brand consultancy launched by former Droga5 strategist Jonny Bauer.
Lubar’s departure comes as Omnicom accelerates its long-anticipated merger with Interpublic Group, a deal expected to close by the end of November 2025.
There are unverified reports that DDB may be folded into other Omnicom brands, including BBDO or TBWA, as part of the post-merger agency consolidation strategy. Omnicom, however, has stated publicly that it is “reviewing its agency portfolio,” and has not committed to any specific outcome for DDB.
Omnicom has declined to confirm whether Lubar’s role will be filled, raising further speculation about the fate of the DDB name itself.
Lubar joined DDB in late 2022 as president and COO, following almost a decade with McCann Worldgroup in senior leadership roles, including CEO of McCann London and president of McCann North America. He was promoted to global CEO less than a year later.
During his time at the helm, Lubar helped steer DDB back to the top of the industry’s awards circuit, reclaiming Network of the Year at Cannes Lions in 2025, the agency’s second win in three years. His tenure also included navigating the fallout from this year’s controversial Grand Prix withdrawal from DM9 São Paulo, after Cannes Lions ruled the case film included AI-manipulated footage. Despite the scandal, DDB retained its Network of the Year crown.
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