Advertising Council Australia (ACA) is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of former ACA Chair and Global CEO of Droga5, Mark Green.
Affectionately known across adland as “Greenie,” Mark was a visionary leader whose influence shaped Australian and global advertising for more than two decades. His six-year tenure as ACA Chair helped modernise and unite the Australian advertising industry, leaving a lasting mark on the culture and the countless people he mentored.
ACA Chair Michael Rebelo said Mark would be remembered as much for his character as his achievements.
“The loss of Mark is incredibly hard to comprehend. We grew up in this industry together, from our early days as suits at Saatchi & Saatchi, and I feel very lucky to have called Greenie a dear friend. He was an exceptional leader, with strong business instincts and real creative bravery, who backed great ideas with absolute conviction and inspired those around him to go for it.
“He gave so much to our industry, but what I’ll remember most is his passion for creativity and his remarkable ability to bring people together, even rallying competing agencies for the greater good. It was a privilege to work alongside him on the ACA Board, and even more so to know him as a friend. His passing leaves an enormous void, and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rachel, Ari, Gisele and Mark’s wider family.”
ACA CEO Tony Hale said the news was a devastating shock.
“I am stunned and heartbroken. It is such a tragedy, and my thoughts are with his wonderful family in New York at this incredibly difficult time.
“Mark was the quintessential new age ad man. Sharp, witty, entrepreneurial, and always with a wry smile and glint in his eye as he orchestrated the next deal. He was a friend, mentor, and Chair of ACA, during which time he totally transformed the organisation.
“A rare leader, he was fiercely ambitious for creative excellence, entirely devoid of cynicism, and relentlessly committed to the industry that he loved. He led with clarity, genuinely cared for people, and his generosity was boundless. His influence went far beyond his commercial success; he made a lasting difference to our business culture and the people in it.”
