In memory of advertising legend Tony Cullingham

The legendary leader of the Watford Advertising Course and BBH Barn has died at the age of 66. The beloved husband, father and son and was also leader of the Watford Advertising Course and the BBH Barn. Cullingham was renowned for his work supporting creative leaders and teams across the UK industry, dedicated to finding and nurturing talent to fulfil their potential. 

With the groundbreaking Watford Advertising Course he kicked down the doors of adland and elevated aspiring creatives from all walks of life. Over the last two years he led The Barn, BBH’s creative placement scheme, alongside BBH ECD Helen Rhodes – a former Watford student herself. 

In a statement on their website BBH said, “The profound impact Tony has had on BBH, on the industry and on the business of creativity cannot be overstated. Our hearts are broken but we are so proud and grateful to have had the joy and opportunity of working alongside him. It is a devastating loss, for us and for so many in our industry, and an unimaginable loss for his family. All our thoughts and love are with them, and we are doing everything we can to support them and give them the space and privacy they need to grieve during this difficult time.”

"My creative roots were formed in Watford. As a former student of Tony’s, it is difficult for me to put into words the enormity of his influence and impact on my life, says Helen Rhodes. “It has been one of my greatest privileges working alongside him to relaunch The Barn. He wanted to find people who thought differently, who would approach a problem with something most of us would never have thought of. He was a legend, a one of a kind, with the most unique teaching style of honesty, unpredictability and passion. It is no understatement to say that most of the creative departments in London are staffed thanks to his unwavering commitment to creativity and diversity over the last three decades and more. This is his legacy. This is all Tony. He left us too soon and he will be so deeply missed."

Karen Martin, BBH CEO. "Tony has been a part of our family for over two years now, and has been a source of inspiration for decades before that. There wasn’t a person he didn’t speak to, and not a person who didn’t speak of him fondly. He was a true trailblazer, transforming people's lives, being a relentless voice for up and coming creative sparks. He was so loved by so many. We are all absolutely devastated. All our thoughts and all our love are with his family right now."