The Australasian advertising industry is mourning the death of Hylton Mackley AM, a foundational figure whose influence stretched across agencies, boardrooms and creative culture on both sides of the Tasman for more than 50 years.
Mackley’s passing was noted today in a statement released by former Clemenger Group chairman Robert Morgan, who paid tribute to a leader widely regarded as one of the industry’s great builders and stewards.
A career that shaped two markets
Mackley was one of four founders of Colenso in New Zealand in 1969.
Clemenger Group purchased a stake in the agency in 1973 before it formally merged into the group in 1987. At the time, Colenso was New Zealand’s largest marketing communications company.
Following the merger, Mackley was appointed finance director of Clemenger Group, a role he held until 2011. He later served as a non-executive director and, more recently, as chairman emeritus of Clemenger Group New Zealand.
Morgan said Mackley’s legacy was woven deeply into both the business and the industry more broadly.
“Hylton’s contributions shaped Clemenger Group and the industry in both New Zealand and Australia for more than 50 years,” Morgan said.
Former Clemenger Group chairman Robert Morgan
A culture-maker as well as a leader
While Mackley’s financial acumen was central to Clemenger Group’s growth, Morgan said his personality helped define agency culture – particularly at Colenso.
“His mischievous and entrepreneurial spirit has also remained part of Colenso’s DNA,” he said.
“The agency’s annual celebration of Founders Day recalls the story when Hylton and his co-founders would leave the lights on at the end of the day – making the other agencies think they were working through the night. For those who knew Hylton, this story would come as no surprise!”
Contributions beyond advertising
Outside the agency world, Mackley served as honorary treasurer of the Victorian Artists Society, where his philanthropic support was instrumental in restoring the Society’s Heritage Victoria and National Trust-listed building.
His involvement extended to an annual award and exhibition in his name, showcasing excellence in painting and sculpture.
He was also a director of the Barnett Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation involved in the affordable housing sector, and was widely respected for his fundraising efforts and financial leadership.
In 2018, Mackley was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his contribution to the advertising industry and the arts.
Morgan said Mackley’s impact was felt most strongly by those who worked alongside him.
“On behalf of those who worked with or were mentored by him, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Hylton’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”
Mackley is survived by his wife, Eileen Mackley AM, and sons Justin and Adam.