Jill Kelly is out as U.S. CEO of GroupM’s EssenceMediacom, according to an internal memo reviewed by Ad Age. Kelly, who was originally appointed to the role in 2022 to oversee the merger of GroupM’s Essence and Mediacom media agencies, will remain with GroupM in a currently untitled role, according to a person familiar with the situation. 

JiYoung Kim will fill the CEO role on an interim basis, according to the email. Kim earlier this month was named chief operating officer for GroupM North America.

GroupM declined to comment. Kelly did not immediately respond to Ad Age’s request for comment.

The memo penned by Sharb Farjami, who was named CEO of the WPP media network’s North American business in January, did not outline a reason for Kelly’s exit from the CEO role. In her new position, Kelly will “stand up synergy programs and best practices, helping us better serve clients and strengthen our visibility in the market,” according to the memo.

The news comes as GroupM has been organizing under new U.S. leadership. Farjami has since hired additional executive leadership this month.

“Jill Kelly, who took the role of U.S. CEO of EssenceMediacom to guide the newly merged agency through its first year as a combined entity, will be leaving her post,” read Farjami’s email. “Jill has been instrumental in guiding EssenceMediacom through its first year. Overseeing a substantial client portfolio, she used her experience to build a unique culture in pursuit of breakthroughs for and with clients, shaping a strong, competitive, and diverse leadership team.”

People close to the matter noted to Ad Age that the agency has been facing challenges maintaining accounts and pitching new business. In 2023, EssenceMediacom lost media accounts for Uber (although it retains the Asia Pacific business), Walgreens and Signet Jewelers.

Farjami wrote the WPP media network will be working to identify a replacement for Kelly “to champion our continued success.” 

“This is a critical time for GroupM and its agencies as we continue to transform our business,” wrote Farjami. “Our agencies are at the front lines of our efforts to be No. 1, and we are positioned to succeed because of the hard work you all put in every day.”