Donna Imperato

Donna Imperato is a prominent figure in the public relations and communications industry. She served as the CEO of BCW Global, one of the world's largest communications agencies, from 2018 to 2023.12

Career Highlights

BCW Global Leadership: Imperato led BCW Global since its formation in February 2018, when WPP merged Cohn & Wolfe and Burson-Marsteller.2 Under her leadership, BCW became one of the top three agencies in the world by revenue.2

Cohn & Wolfe: Prior to BCW, Imperato was the CEO of Cohn & Wolfe for 15 years, from 2003 to 2018.1 During her tenure, she drove the agency's evolution from a boutique firm to an international powerhouse, achieving five consecutive years of double-digit growth between 2014 and 2018.1

Industry Recognition: Imperato has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including:

• Named to the #1 position on PRWeek's "Power 50 List" in 20181
• Inducted into the PRWeek Hall of Fame in December 20223
• Included in the inaugural class of PRWeek's "Hall of Femme" in 20161
• Awarded the SABRE Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement in 20131
• Inducted into the PRNews Hall of Fame in 20091

Professional Affiliations

Imperato is a member of several prestigious organizations:

• Women's Forum of New York
• International Women's Forum
• Arthur W. Page Society
• PR Council
• Partnership for New York City1

Education

Imperato attended New York University.1

Retirement

In January 2023, Donna Imperato announced her plans to retire from BCW Global. She stated that she would step down once her successor was appointed, working with WPP CEO Mark Read to ensure a smooth transition.24

Imperato's legacy at BCW includes creating a collaborative culture, fostering long-term relationships with team members, and successfully merging Burson-Marsteller and Cohn & Wolfe to form one of the world's largest PR firms.2