David Ogilvy

Date of Birth: June 23, 1911

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: July 21, 1999

Biography

David Mackenzie Ogilvy was a British advertising tycoon, often hailed as the “Father of Advertising.” He was born in West Horsley, Surrey, England, and attended Fettes College in Edinburgh before winning a scholarship to Christ Church, Oxford. His early career was quite diverse; he worked as a chef, a door-to-door salesman, and even a farmer, before finding his calling in advertising. Ogilvy began his advertising career with George Gallup’s Audience Research Institute. During World War II, he served in the British Intelligence Service. After the war, Ogilvy moved to the United States and joined the advertising agency Hewitt, Ogilvy, Benson & Mather, which would later become Ogilvy & Mather. His revolutionary ideas and campaigns reshaped the advertising landscape, making him a legend in the field. Among his most famous campaigns were those for Dove soap, Rolls-Royce, and Hathaway shirts. Ogilvy authored several influential books on advertising, including “Confessions of an Advertising Man” and “Ogilvy on Advertising,” which are still considered essential readings for anyone entering the industry. He passed away on July 21, 1999, leaving behind a monumental legacy.

5 Interesting Facts about David Ogilvy

1. David Ogilvy’s first job in advertising was as an account executive at Mather & Crowther in London.

2. He was known for his meticulous approach to advertising, often conducting extensive research before creating a campaign.

3. Ogilvy was a strong advocate for the importance of branding and positioning in advertising.

4. He believed in the power of storytelling in advertising and often focused on creating emotional connections with consumers.

5. Ogilvy’s famous ad for Rolls-Royce featured the headline: “At 60 miles an hour the loudest noise in this new Rolls-Royce comes from the electric clock.”