James Heekin, who has led the company since 2007, will remain as executive chairman. 

Houston (pictured) joined Grey 10 years ago. He joined Grey New York as executive vice-president, director of marketing and was promoted to global chief marketing officer of Grey Worldwide in 2010. He was then appointed to the new position of managing director of Grey New York in 2011, then became chief operating officer in 2012. A year later, he was promoted to CEO of Grey North America, overseeing the New York, San Francisco and Canadian offices, as well as Grey Activation and PR and Wing, the multicultural marketing communications agency. 

“As we celebrate Grey’s centennial and a decade of record new business growth and creative performance, the time is right for the elevation of a new generation,” Heekin has been quoted as saying. "Michael Houston is one of our most dynamic and talented leaders. This well-deserved promotion will enable us to set the agenda for Grey’s future growth and competitiveness across our global network."