Sometimes we use this blog to cause a stir. Sometimes we use it to invite people to breakfast. But today we are using it to say goodbye to a brilliant bloke and an outstanding planner. Goodbye because Martin died on Friday and we feel very, very sad.
Garry and Jane worked with Martin at Grey. In fact,he was one of Garry's first hirings, and in many ways, he was probably his best. Martin was clever, fantastic company and had a brilliant creative mind. In his time at Grey, he opened people's eyes up to the reality that, at its best, planning could generate as much creative energy as any copywriter or art director.
He was fantastic in pitches because he was engaging and honest. People loved Martin because he was one of a kind and lead by example. His greatest strength at work was to look at a problem and solve it in a way that was not only brilliant but also simple. Martin loved life and it showed in everything he did.
One of the first texts that Garry received when Campbell Lace (Beta) launched was from Martin. It simply read,"Good luck mate, I'm rooting for you. Avoid vaulting ambition." Brilliant advice, simply put and typical of the man who was the most interesting and inspiring planner that Garry ever worked with.
You are a huge loss my friend and we'll miss you. Rest in Peace.
