Brian Child, former CEO of McCann Manchester, and widely regarded as the most important man in the adverting world outside London, died last week.
In a long career that took in working in production for Portland Advertising as 16-year-old, moving to a role as account director at Royds, where he rose to board director, and becoming MD, and then CEO at McCann Manchester when it bought his former employer, Child had a stellar career by most accounts.
Dean Lovett, current CEO of McCann UK Regions has paid tribute, saying: “Brian left a huge legacy at McCann when he retired in 2001 after 25 years with the business. He joined the Prestbury based agency, then known as Royds as an account director in 1976, making a mark quickly, he soon became a board director, then climbed the ranks to MD and CEO when the agency was sold to the global network McCann.
“During his time as CEO, Brian grew the agency to be the largest outside of London, with £100m turnover and a headcount of 350. He was instrumental in launching the experiential agency Momentum across Europe and Africa and was made president of McCann Europe in 1999.
Lovett continued: “Brian had such a huge and lasting effect on McCann Manchester and the wider network. But, not just on the phenomenal growth of the business that he oversaw. Aside from his sharp business acumen and success, he created a unique culture at the agency which is still apparent today. He brought a rare combination of authority and kindness, instilling a ‘can do’ attitude. He was a natural mentor and hundreds of people benefitted from his supportive leadership style and guidance over the years.
“He will be very much missed by those fortunate enough to have worked with him, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this very sad time.”
Image courtesy Mccann Manchester
