Publicis Groupe ANZ is mourning the passing of long-serving colleague and friend Karen Colin-Thome, who died peacefully following a courageous battle with cancer.
Colin-Thome dedicated more than 35 years to Publicis Groupe, beginning her career at Saatchi & Saatchi in 1989 before joining Leo Australia, where she served as finance director, and most recently Publicis Production. Across each chapter of her career, she played a significant role in helping build and support some of Australia’s leading agency businesses.
Known for her warmth, humour, resilience and dedication, Karen was a highly respected finance leader and a much-loved member of the Publicis Groupe family.
Throughout her career, she was a trusted mentor, colleague and friend to generations of people across the organisation.
“One of my earliest memories of working with KCT was as a young account manager at Saatchi & Saatchi. She was fiercely committed to her work and deeply invested in the success of those around her, but what I will remember most is her warmth, generosity, unwavering commitment to our company and unmistakable sense of humour,” Michael Rebelo, CEO of Publicis Groupe ANZ, said.
“She dedicated more than three decades to our business and, in that time, helped shape the culture and success of Saatchi & Saatchi Australia, Leo Australia and Publicis Production. Even throughout her battle with cancer, she approached life with optimism, determination and grace.
“KCT was more than a colleague. She was part of the fabric of our Groupe, and her legacy will be measured not by the years she spent with us, but by the countless people she supported, mentored and inspired along the way. She will be profoundly missed.”
