The advertising industry paid tribute to Ben Walker, the founder of Shopper who died at the weekend aged 47.
The news of his death prompted a strong flow of tributes from the industry, many of them admiring his personal attributes and his vision which led to the creation of Shopper.
He was described as wonderful, generous, kind, a champion for innovation and a top bloke.
Here are some opf the tributes:
Sarah Keith, Group Managing Director at Active International and Involved Media: “The absolute energy and drive Ben had to create Shopper is a fabulous legacy. I will always be an admirer of both his relentlessly optimistic approach and care for others.”
Dan Johns, Managing Partner at Havas Media Group: "Such incredibly sad news, what a kind and generous man. Always happy to help, always with a smile. The deepest sympathy to family and the team at Shopper."
John O'Neill, CEO, QMS: “Such sad news. Wonderful proactive person. We worked together for a number of years. His focus on looking after people and always striving to be better will be one of his legacies.”
Imogen Hewitt, CEO at Spark Foundry: “Just awful news. A generous, funny and kind man who will be missed by many. My heart is heavy for his family and friends.”
Katie Rigg-Smith, CEO Mindshare Australasia: “I haven’t been able to get my head around this news since I heard it over the weekend. Absolutely devastated.
“Ben was one of a kind and someone I had the pleasure of working with for the past 22 years. Ben you will be so missed by so many. Thank you for always being a positive force in this industry, we are better because you were part of it.
“Thinking of his family at this incredibly difficult time. Also sending support to the Shopper team as I can only imagine how hard this is.”
Jane Ractliffe, managing director, Australia/NZ, Standard Media Index: “Devastating news. Ben was a true visionary and he gave his all to see his vision come to life.
“He was always thinking about how the industry could be improved and SMI's move to show ad spend split between Multinational and Independent Agencies was another of his brilliant ideas.
“He lived life with such great joy and will be so terribly missed. My thoughts are with his family and the Shopper team at this very sad time.”
Angela Smith, MediaSmiths Managing Director & Founder: “Absolutely heartbroken about this news. My thoughts and love go out to the Shopper team and Ben’s Family.
“He was an incredible human, who brought his business vision to life. I’m blessed to have also called him my friend. He’ll be missed dearly.”
Nickie Scriven, CEO, Zenith Media Australia:m “Such terribly sad news. My thoughts and condolences to Ben’s family and the Shopper Team. Our industry was better for you being a part of it. Never to be forgotten! RIP”
Simon Rutherford, Partner & CEO Slingshot Media: “There are no words. RIP Ben, you were one of the good guys. A champion of the industry, a champion for your people, a champion for innovation and creativity and most of all a champion person.
"Fun, cheeky, you will be missed by us all. My condolences and thoughts are with Lisa and the boys and the Shopper team.
“You’ve left way too soon. Your contribution has been immense and you can be very proud of everything you have achieved.
Laura Nice, Co-CEO of OMD Australia: “Terrible news and so devastating for his family. A reminder of how fragile life is. Love and thoughts for Ben and his family.”
Aimee Buchanan, CEO, GroupM ANZ: “Devasting news. I can’t stop thinking about him & the family he leaves behind.
“Ben was one of the first people I met in the industry. A great operator, but more importantly a great human. My thoughts are with his family, his friends & the Shopper team. RIP Ben.”
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