Michael Hockney in shock D&AD exit

by James Hamilton, Campaign 23-Mar-07

Chief executive to 'take a sabbatical' after four years' service.

The D&AD chief executive, Michael Hockney, has walked out on the charity
after four years in the role, just three days before the start of its
flagship Congress event.

Hockney's sudden departure comes amid rumours of a power struggle among

senior executives at the not-for-profit organisation.

However, D&AD is downplaying any drama behind Hockney's exit, claiming
that the former Butterfield Day Devito Hockney founder has been planning
the move for several months.

The D&AD chairman, Anthony Simonds-Gooding, said: "Michael has worked
tirelessly in his commitment to D&AD and has created a really competent
team there."

He added: "It's in a very healthy place; membership has doubled and
awards entries are on the up."

Hockney said: "I have enjoyed my time at D&AD and am proud of the
achievements we have made. My plan is to take a mini sabbatical - I
haven't had one in 35 years."

A source close to the charity said there were no immediate plans to
replace Hockney.

Simonds-Gooding will assume day-to-day control of the organisation and
will review the vacancy once the D&AD Congress has come to its
conclusion.

Hockney joined D&AD in May 2003, replacing David Kester, who left after
nine years to head the Design Council. Hockney started his career at JWT
before moving to BMP to work on the launch of Channel 4. He later formed
BDDH, before leaving in 1994 to head the auction house Christie's.

Under Hockney's charge, D&AD has gunned for global expansion in an
attempt to challenge the Cannes Lions as the pre-eminent international
advertising awards scheme.

The fourth annual D&AD Congress launches on 26 March. It brings together
practitioners from various media for a series of lectures, exhibitions
and the D&AD awards presentation in May.

- Perspective, page 19.