The July 2 merger of WPP siblings Cohn & Wolfe (C&W) and GCI Group was what CEO Donna Imperato calls a "natural evolution" for both firms. It also marks a career evolution for Imperato, as she leads development of a new company that will integrate the strengths and cultures of both entities.

"My role didn't change, but it feels different because I'm creating something new," she explains. "I have to think differently, which is fun. I want it to become an ...