Does WPP keep a blacklist of applicants?

Context:

Took a shot and pinged a Global CEO (business, not hold co) asking for a job. He forwarded me to the regional CEO, and tldr, I got an offer.

After 7 rounds of interview and direct salary negotiation with regional CEO, we couldn't meet on a number. This was 4 years ago.

I made another application 8 months ago, employee referral, and an overseas colleague direct letter of support to the hiring team.... and I didnt even get a no.

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I can confirm that there is a list of “do not hire” but usually only because of severe HR misconducts. Like harassment, lewd behavior, etc. Each company has one. It’s a list to protect the company from future legal issues. E.g., if a company knew that a person was dismissed because of ethical misconduct, then it would be a major liability if the company rehired that same person at the same holding company.

I don’t think bad interviews would go on this list.

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Can confirm there is a list and sometimes it’s not even your fault but rather retaliation on WPP’s part. I have this on record from WPP/Ogilvy People Team.

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That’s just the way things are now. Not WPP specific or evidence of a blacklist imo

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I think you’re taking this way too personally. This is just how it goes sometimes.

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This wouldn’t blacklist you I’m certain

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Even if i took it all the way to an offer letter, then failed salary negotiation and rejected the offer?

There is 💯 a blacklist at all the holding companies. That has been verified by 2 retired recruiters I know.
And then there is a scenario where they troll your LinkedIn connections and inevitably will find someone who says negative things about you (for a variety of reasons: jealousy, gossip, they have a friend who wants your opportunity, or they are just a dick, etc).
The recruiting system is so broken, that I have not been asked for 3-5 reputable references to call / contact who actually know you since 2018.

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OP here, thanks for the feedback everyone. Asking cos I saw a role pop up at one of their specialist shops and was thinking of applying.

The uncertainty of whether ill still have a job come 2026 is getting under my skin. I'm in the APAC region and theres been a blood bath at every network, and its spreading to the larger independents as well.

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Every company keeps a list of applicants that somebody in leadership wants to make sure it does not get hired. For lots of reasons. This is always been a blacklist industry. It’s illegal by the way.

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Would this apply across different brands, say WPP media vs Choreograph ?

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