Let’s face it: this business can be cynical and, at times, as nasty as a highschool hallway. Gossip too easily leads to online slander, escalates, and give the impression that vitriol is the air agencies breathe. Buy every once in a while…
When news hit of the sudden and all-too-soon death of Suzanne Hart – a longtime ad executive most recently employed at Y&R in New York – all of the snarky commentary suddenly evaporated. Rival agencies reached out to the WPP-owned shop immediately with phone calls and notes to express their sympathy. An entire industry has rallied in support of Hart’s family, and colleagues at Y&R, where she is said to have logged long hours and, despite the rigors of being a new-business exec, worked with a smile.
Employees at the New York office of Y&R and other WPP shops located there were dismissed for the remainder of the week in order to spend time with their loved ones and regroup. When they return next week, they’ll no doubt still be reeling from the loss of their co-worker and friend. While grief counseling has already been offered to staff, surely the most comforting will be the heartfelt messages from friends.
Omnicom Group’s TBWA wrote on its Twitter feed: “Our thoughts go out to our neighbors at Y&R on the loss of their colleague, Suzanne Hart, who tragically passed away.” Brandon Snow, head of new business at rival DDB, wrote “Hang in there Y&R friends. Hang in there.” Former employees, such as Jane Barrat who ran the New York office until recently, sent out her condolences: “A terrible day. Thinking of you all XoX.”
“Between my Facebook and Twitter feeds, it was amazing to see how people responded the only way they knew how, which was to offer their support,” Nancy Hill, head of the trade group for ad agencies, the 4A’s, told Ad Age. “When a tragedy like this strikes, it hits you in the gut because it could be you, or it could be the person next to you.”
What affects people at one shop ultimately affects all agencies since talent regularly moves around in the ad business. Said Hill: “At the end of the day, it is a community, and it’s one more proof point that people in this industry do really care.”
How strong is the ad community in Canada? Do you think we’re a kinder, gentler business, or able to sling mud with the best of them? Post your thoughts in our comment section.
To read the original article in Advertising Age, click here.
