Tess Alps receives AA’s prestigious Mackintosh Medal

Tess Alps has been named the newest recipient of the Advertising Association’s Mackintosh Medal, which recognises outstanding personal and public service to advertising.

The medal has been awarded only 10 times since 1980 with Richard Eyre, chairman of the IAB and former chief executive of ITV, being the last recipient in 2013.

Alps currently serves as the chair of Thinkbox, and was appointed its first chief executive in 2006.

Before joining Thinkbox, she was the chair of the PHD Group in the UK. In her 13 years with PHD she played many roles including six years running Drum.

Stephen Woodford, chief executive, Advertising Association said: “The award of the Mackintosh Medal is a rare honour, bestowed to those who have made a truly outstanding mark on our industry.”

Commenting on the achievement, Alps said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Mackintosh Medal and extremely grateful to the Advertising Association for the recognition and to the many people who have helped me along the way. After working in the industry for more than 40 years, I am more convinced than ever about its contribution to our economy.

“I am also excited about the possibilities that future technologies bring, though I will never stop urging us all to use advertising ethically and responsibly. Advertising works best when it is trusted and enjoyed.

“We seem to have reached turning points on many issues – both regarding advertising’s relationship with consumers and behaviour within our industry – that give me reasons to be optimistic. Thank you; I will endeavour to live up to what the Mackintosh Medal represents.”