Droga5 global CEO Mark Green dies aged 53

Droga5 global chief executive and The Monkeys co-founder Mark Green has died from a heart attack in New York aged 53, Accenture has confirmed.

Green died on Saturday, with the company describing his death as “sudden and unexpected”. He had moved to New York with his family in 2024 to lead the Accenture-owned creative agency.

His career spanned creating one of Australia’s most successful independent agencies, its acquisition by Accenture, and his eventual appointment to a global leadership role.

Accenture pays tribute

In a statement to Mediaweek, Accenture paid tribute to Green’s contribution to the industry and his relationships with colleagues.

“It is with tremendous sadness that we acknowledge that Mark Green passed away from a heart attack on Saturday in New York City at the age of 53. As co-founder of legendary advertising agency, The Monkeys, President of Song ANZ and most recently, Global CEO of Droga5, Mark made an indelible mark on the advertising industry both in Australia and globally.

“He was a trusted mentor and friend to many, and his loss will be felt deeply by our entire family at Droga5, Accenture and Accenture Song. He will be remembered not only as the visionary that he was, but for his generosity, his humour, and his empathy.”

From The Monkeys to New York

Green co-founded The Monkeys with Justin Drape and Scott Nowell in 2006, helping build the business into a leading Australian creative agency.

He continued as chief executive after Accenture acquired it in 2017 and served as president of Accenture Song’s Australia and New Zealand business.

His appointment as Droga5 global CEO in 2024 brought a move to New York. The Monkeys subsequently adopted the Droga5 name at the end of that year.

Green also served as chair of the Advertising Council of Australia and helped drive the launch of The Growth Agenda in The Australian.

Known throughout the industry as “Greenie”, he returned to Australia in 2025 to accept his induction into the AdNews Advertising Hall of Fame.

Leadership team to maintain continuity

Accenture told the publication that Droga5’s leadership team would maintain continuity for employees and clients, with details of how the company would honour Green to follow.

“Mark is survived by his wife Rachel and their two children, Ari and Gisele. Our thoughts are with them and all his loved ones during this difficult time.

“Droga5’s leadership team is ensuring continuity for our people and clients. We will have more to share about Mark and his legacy, including details of how we will honour him, in the coming weeks.”