Today the Omnicom organization issued a statement regarding last week’s passing of Gordon Patterson, a 25-year agency veteran who had served as business director of the Omnicom Media Group in South Africa since June 2014.
Four days ago, the executive was attacked in the garage of his home by would-be robbers and died after being shot during the ensuing scuffle. The South African intelligence bureau released footage of the incident, and it is deeply disturbing.
The statement from Omnicom:
“It is with great sadness and shock that we acknowledge the passing of Gordon Patterson. A true professional, he had a profound impact on the industry, earning various prestigious accolades and titles over his 25-year career.
At the time of his passing, Gordon was director of the Omnicom Media Group, a board member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation and vice-chairman of the Advertising Media Association of South Africa, among other positions,” the statement continued. “His contributions to the Omnicom Group were valuable and far-reaching; they will be felt long after his passing. Together we mourn the loss of our colleague and friend, and express our condolences to his family.”
Prior to joining Omnicom in 2014, Patterson held various leadership roles within the South African division of Starcom MediaVest Group, launching MediaVest South Africa in 2008. He previously worked as a strategist at the local offices of Y&R and Leo Burnett.
He is survived by his wife.
[Pic via Jeremy Glyn / Financial Mail]