We're delighted to announce that ISBA's Director General, Phil Smith has been awarded an OBE in this year's Kings Birthday Honours.
The awarding of an OBE to Phil is welcome recognition of a stellar career in the UK advertising and marketing industry.
Over the course of more than 40 years, Phil has worked for some of the UK’s biggest brands and provided leadership to a sector which is an essential driver of economic growth. Throughout his career, he has always sought to challenge the status quo, bringing about positive change for the industry that he loves – and, crucially, for the public.
Phil has made a real difference to ensuring that brands can advertise safely, responsibly and effectively, despite operating in hugely challenging and volatile times; and he has led his team in tackling some of the biggest economic and social issues facing marketers today, understanding that business has a key role to play in building a better society.
Over his eight-year tenure as Director General of ISBA, he has been the pre-eminent voice representing brand advertisers, and has fought their corner on issues from online safety to ad accessibility. His work on reform will continue in the coming years as he takes on the role of Chair of Origin, delivering on the promise of a world-first cross-media measurement platform.
Everyone at ISBA would like to congratulate Phil on his OBE and thank him for his leadership.