Tributes are flowing for Lisa Ronson, the chief marketing officer at Medibank, who died in a farm accident at the weekend, leaving a husband, Chris Taylor, and son, Ben. She was 52.
She was known as a sensitive leader, holding some of the top jobs in marketing in Australia including CMO of the Australian Tourism Commission and the head of marketing at Coles.
Her colleagues said she was a generous person, who helped others in their careers, describing her as a "truly great human and marketing genius".
“We are devastated by the news of Lisa’s passing," said Medibank CEO David Koczkar.
"Lisa was a brilliant, loved, and much respected member of our team at Medibank. Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this very difficult time.”
At the AANA (Australian Association of National Advertisers), the board of directors, staff and community were "truly devasted".
"Few have impacted our industry and its people more than Lisa. She leaves behind a legacy of outstanding work, talented teams, and strong friendships across the industry," the AANA said.
"Lisa was a tireless advocate for marketing, our industry and building up the people around her. Her passion for developing talent is legendary.
"She invested countless hours educating, mentoring, coaching and speaking at events to share her knowledge and passion for marketing with young talent.
Those at the AANA described Lisa Ronson's wicked sense of humour, contagious laugh and the ability to find a kind and constructive person in any situation.
"Lisa’s enormous contribution to the AANA board over so many years is a testament to her dedication and commitment to the industry that she cherished so much."
Andrea Martens, CEO, ADMA, said everyone at ADMA was devastated.
"Lisa was one of the most genuine and caring people you could meet, and one of the great leaders in the marketing industry," Martens said.
"She cared about our craft, but she cared more about the people in the industry and worked hard to make it better for everyone.
"To my mind she was one of the very best marketers Australia has produced. Her work was always fearless, bold, inventive, but never forgetting the reason we do it - the people. She was always very generous with her thoughts and insights - never shying away from having the hard conversations in public, and always making time for everyone in private as well.
"The industry is a poorer place without Lisa in it, and we send our condolences and best wishes to her family at this tragic time."
Iris Carolin Wagner, digital marketing director Riyadh Air: “Incredibly sad news today. Shocked to hear of Lisa's passing, one of Australia's most recognised marketers.
“Had the pleasure of working with Lisa at Tourism Australia and will remember her energy. Thoughts and love are with Ben & Chris at this time.”
Steve Loader, CEO, CareA2+: “I was devastated to hear of the passing of Lisa Ronson, a board member of Wheelchair Rugby Australia, due to an unfortunate accident.
“Although she had an incredibly busy professional life, Lisa generously gave her time and energy to WRA to assist whenever and wherever possible. Lisa made an impact on everyone she met and will be missed by all. Our condolences and thoughts are with her husband, Chris, and son, Ben. Rest in peace, Lisa.”
Melanie Lindquist, managing director - Asia Pacific, Talon: “Devastated and shocked at the sudden passing of the much admired and beloved, Lisa Ronson.
“Lisa and I first met when interviewing her for an Australian Marketing Institute article. We connected many times over the years and I cherished our chats.
“Lisa was an incredible leader, mentor and human. Her legacy will live on and our community will forever be indebted to Lisa for raising the profile of marketing as a profession.
“Deepest condolences to her family. Lisa you will be missed deeply. RIP.”
Felicia Mariani, chief executive, Victoria Tourism Industry Council: “I feel like someone has just ripped my heart out and stepped on it.
“I’m shattered to read this news today that Lisa Ronson, a beautiful human being and a wonderful friend to so many of us, has been taken away from us way too soon.
“Your wings were ready my friend, but our hearts were not.”
Steve Badgery, global head of talent at OpenSolar: “The world lost a truly great human and marketing genius, Lisa Ronson. We worked together at Westpac and when she left to become the CMO at Tourism Australia, Lisa agreed to me my professional mentor.
“Over the years, Lisa helped me navigate big career decisions, uncertainty and tough times and wins. Lis always provided the most uplifting advice and guidance, and no matter how busy she was with her own successful career at Toursim Australia, Coles or most recently Medibank, she always had time to discuss my career with me.
“My heart is broken tonight! I send my most heartfelt condolences to Lisa’s incredible partner Chris Taylor, her son Ben, and to all the people that Lisa’s kindness, generosity and wisdom has touched over the years. Vale Lisa Ronson.”
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