Aegis shares up as its chief exits

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Aegis gave no reason for his departure and chairman John Napier said profits are "broadly in line with the average of current market expectations". But earlier this month Aegis lost an estimated $1 billion global account from car-maker Renault.

Napier, who also chairs insurer Royal Sun Alliance, takes over on a temporary basis. He said Aegis faces "challenging conditions". Alex de Groote, analyst at Panmure Gordon, said: "The CEO going is good for the investment case."

Sources close to Aegis reiterated today there are no plans to break up the firm.

Aegis has repeatedly fended off takeover efforts by shareholder Vincent Bolloré, chairman of rival firm Havas.

Lerwill made £658,000 as well as a £532,000 bonus last year. He is understood to have a 12-month notice period.