Page 24 - AdNews magazine Mar-Apr-May 2023

Russel Howcroft in the Advertising Hall of Fame
HALL OF FAME
WINNER
Russel Howcroft has his father, John, who was in the advertis- ing business, to thank for his start in advertising. He organised a week's work experience for Russel at an agency.
And like his father, Russel helped his son, Charlie, who is one part of a trio in agency Good One Creative. Together with friends Freddie Young and Tom Sutherland, Charlie’s agency part- nered with independent Hardhat on @TheFactsination - an advertis- ing industry initiative including #VAXTHENATION. The campaign was headed by Russel.
Russel Howcroft found his way into Australian living rooms via
Gruen on ABC television and now on radio at Nine’s 3AW. He also fronted the documentary How Australia Got Its Mojo.
He is known as the “sell” voice in Australia on the cultural and economic importance of advertis- ing in society.
But he had a long and distin- guished career before becoming recognisable in the collective mind of Australia. He has served in many senior roles across the industry, including Executive General Manager at Network 10, PwC’s first Chief Creative Officer and CEO of agency Young & Rubicam Group. He is currently chair of the Australian Film Television and Radio School.
Where did he discover his love for selling? Howcroft told AdNews: “My father was late into the adver- tising business. He probably got his first job in advertising when he was in his 40s.
“That was JWT. He was on the NAB’s rural business and he was well known for his work on the rural industry. He was an all rounder in that he would do the strategic work, the account management work and the creative work.”
At McCann's, Russel’s father got his son one week in the office. Aged 20, Russel was studying mar- keting at Monash University.
During his work experience he had an idea for L’Oreal. David
Todd Sampson makes the announcement. Russel Howcroft at 3AW gig.