In memory of Keith Fowler MBE, 20th May 1934 – 13th August 2024
Keith Fowler MBE, the former CEO of RSCG Marketing (now Havas Worldwide London) and a dedicated trustee of NABS, has passed away at the age of 90. Keith died peacefully, surrounded by his family, after a brief stay in hospital.
Keith’s legacy is marked by a lifetime of voluntary service, where he provided inspirational and forward-thinking leadership to NABS and numerous other charities. He recently stepped down after 45 years of service to NABS, where he held various voluntary roles, including Director, Trustee, and Chair of the Governance Committee.
From 1995 to 2018, Keith also served as Chairman of the Peterhouse Retirement Complex in Bexhill-on-Sea. Established by NABS in 1966, Peterhouse provided sheltered accomodation for industry retirees. Under Keith’s leadership, the complex thrived and was successfully sold to care home providers Agincare in 2019, allowing NABS to expand its reach and services through the proceeds of the sale. His unwavering dedication, energy, and support were crucial to Peterhouse’s success.
In the late 1980s, Keith led the introduction of NABS’ Advice Line, which has been a vital support resource for thousands in the industry. In 2023 alone, NABS received 4,500 calls from individuals seeking assistance with various personal and professional challenges, including redundancy and mental health.
Keith’s was President of the Solus Club, a prominent industry networking group, in its heyday, fundraising for NABS at the annual Christmas lunch. He also led the retied members lunches, affectionately known as The Golden Oldies.
Beyond his work in advertising, Keith was deeply involved in local charities near his home in Great Missenden. He contributed significantly to the Abbeyfield group, focused on elderly care, and served as an Advisor to the Walled Garden Project at Nursery Fields. His roles have included Director and Trustee of the Abbeyfield Society, Chairman of the Abbeyfield Great Missenden and District Society, and Chair of Governors of the Winchester House School Trust.
Keith’s professional career, spanning nearly 50 years, saw him in leadership roles across various organisations in the advertising, media and marketing industry. His impressive career included serving as CEO of Euro RSCG Marketing Group, RSCG Marketing Services, and Cresta Holdings, as well as Executive Chairman of Edman Communications.
Keith is survived by his wife, Vicki, his children Justin, Annabel and Penelope, and his grandchildren.
He will be remembered fondly by all at NABS for his kindness, wise counsel, and mischievous laugh. We are deeply grateful for his decades of dedication to our mission. Rest in peace, Keith.