Southern Cross Austereo non-executive director, Peter Harvie.
Radio industry figure Peter Harvie, described as a advertising god and one of the industry's true characters, has died.
He started at Clemenger, became managing director of what was then Clemenger Harvie, then ran the Triple M Network.
As chair of Austereo, he led the merger with what is now SCA.
Grant Blackley, CEO of SCA: “We offer our sincere condolences to the Harvie family and our thoughts and prayers are with all at this sad time.
“I can say without equivocation, Peter was an absolute legend in the media industry. He was a tireless advocate for the media sector and importantly SCA over many years.
"Peter's radio career spanned almost 25 years, starting with leading Triple M, to becoming Executive Chairman of Austereo Group and leading the merger between Austereo and Southern Cross Broadcasting to become SCA. He was a very worthy inductee into the Radio Hall of Fame.
“He was never shy but always respectful and led every discussion in a purposeful and impassioned manner. He built and managed so many businesses and initiatives it is hard to name them all.
"He was a genuine lover of creativity and encouraged and supported content teams in the pursuit of building great shows and exceptional talent. His leadership style was unique and he has left an enormously positive and profound legacy for so many in our industry.
"We will miss Peter but know he led a life full of purpose, passion and great fulfilment.”
Neil Shoebridge, Partner at SKMG: "Peter was one of the best connected and most loyal advertising and media executives I met.
"A chat with Peter was always an entertaining, challenging and rewarding experience, and I will always remember the trust and time he invested in our working relationship. He was a true character in the best sense of the world and leaves behind a wonderful legacy. It was an honour to know you Mr Harvie."
Creative director Andrew {Bag} Sidwell: ":So privileged to be the young guy he threw creative projects to when he was Executive Chairman of Austereo from the 90’s.
"I wasn’t from agency world like him - so I had insecurities around not being up to scratch/good enough. But he’d heard I was good from his execs and gave me a chance. I hid my self doubts and had a crack. More work would come. But more importantly for me - the call from Sue his EA saying Peter has a job for you can you come down.
"Sitting in the chairman’s office - folders everywhere - no computer. And this advertising god enquiring about my well being and world. He’d tell me stories and I would feel so lucky. Those briefing moments were and are special."
"I wasn’t from agency world like him - so I had insecurities around not being up to scratch/good enough. But he’d heard I was good from his execs and gave me a chance. I hid my self doubts and had a crack. More work would come. But more importantly for me - the call from Sue his EA saying Peter has a job for you can you come down.
"Sitting in the chairman’s office - folders everywhere - no computer. And this advertising god enquiring about my well being and world. He’d tell me stories and I would feel so lucky. Those briefing moments were and are special."
Dave Cameron, chief content officer at SCA: "30 mins on his balcony a decade ago (over multiple ‘darts’) changed my career decisions, and Harvs remained a personal mentor over hundreds of cups of tea together.
"A giant among the radio industry, a gentleman and mentor to so many. RIP Pete."
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.