• by Steve McClellan  @mp_mcclellan, September 27, 2011

In a statement, the agency said, "After 12 years with the agency, [Doyle] has decided to take a new direction in his career within GroupM and WPP. His new role will be announced in due course." Charles Courtier, CEO Global for MEC, will take management responsibility for MEC North American operations until the new CEO is on-board. He's used to the double dutry, having served in both roles before Doyle was promoted to NA CEO in 2007.

He will be supported by the team at the North American operation that includes Marla Kaplowitz, president of U.S. clients; Dennis Donlin, president, Team AT&T, and Eamonn Store, president global solutions.

Commenting on the development Courtier stated, "Lee has been hugely influential at MEC as CEO for the last four years, and since he joined the company in 1999. Under his tenure the agency has grown by 40%, a stunning achievement. But it's not goodbye - Lee is committed to the Group and vice versa - we will see him in a new role soon." Doyle stated, "After 12 years here, I have decided that the time is right for me to try something new in my career. I'm proud of what we've accomplished. I leave behind an extraordinarily talented group of people and a robust business."