Businessman and entrepreneur Sir Paul Judge passed away earlier this month, age 68. Despite not having a background in marketing, Judge, whose career spanned business, politics and non-for-profit, was a great supporter of the discipline.
Suki Thompson, chief executive and founding partner, Oystercatchers
I first met Paul when he was the president of the CIM and I was the chairman of the Marketing Society. We tried in vain to bring the two organisations closer together, but our friendship started.
Fuelled always by stimulating debate, a desire to better the industry and help people, and often by excellent food and alcohol, my time spent with Paul was never dull. He had a passion for marketing, but then Paul had a passion for many things.
Together, we hosted five industry coffee mornings for Macmillan Cancer Support. But as with everything Paul was involved in he encouraged me to think big. We had cake-making competitions and lots of champagne and auction prizes.
His other love was the City. He sponsored me to get my Freedom of the City, and loved the Worshipful Company of Marketers.
One of my favourite lunches was with him and the judges at the Old Bailey. Paul supported so many people, he loved helping entrepreneurs and I relished his advice, help and support. Paul packed into a year more than most of us do in a lifetime. But for me, life will be a little less fun and exciting without him.
Jenny Ashmore, honorary president, Chartered Institute of Marketing
I got to know him somewhat when I followed him as president of CIM, and would just say personally that it was always clear just how much he cared about marketing and business, for individuals, organisations and all of the UK.
He had sharp insight and a fantastic combination of vision, clear strategy and a good sense of humour. He leaves a powerful legacy and will be much missed. Our thoughts are with his family.
Leigh Hopwood, chair, Chartered Institute of Marketing
It was with great sadness that CIM received the news that Sir Paul had passed away. Sir Paul was president of the Chartered Institute of Marketing from 2008 to 2014 and we were privileged and grateful for the immense support he gave us during that time.
On behalf of everyone at CIM, we have shared heartfelt sympathies with Sir Paul’s family for their loss and our thoughts remain with them during this difficult time.