There are not many long-term advertising folk in Melbourne who haven’t crossed paths with Christopher Pedley, much-loved concierge extraordinaire. Pedley has been with VMLY&R (formally Y&R and George Patterson before that) for just shy of two decades. Pedley’s was the face people were met with at the iconic George’s building for almost fifteen years before the agency relocated to Freshwater Place in Southbank in 2018.
Jake Barrow, group executive creative director, commented: “After a stint like this, some people leave a real impression on the agency. I’m proud to say, Chris is one human who has left a real mark on my life. A single day didn’t pass without you making it just that little bit better for everyone. Thanks Chris. Enjoy your retirement.”
His infectious energy and party planning skills are epic, as are his fabulous outfits and seasonal merchandising displays. He is absolutely part of the agency’s DNA.
Pedley said: “To my VMLY&R family, you have been my rock, my source of laughter, my absolute delight over these last 19 years. I have had the privilege of witnessing an awesome bunch of Legends come thru the doors, right from George Patts days. You’ve all gone on to bigger and better things, and you will continue to do so. To have Patts/Y&R/VMLY&R on your CV is something to be extremely proud of.
And Oh, the parties. The dress-ups at 162 Collins Street. The rabbits on bikes’ for Easter. The mice running along reception and the kitchen bench (they were co-tenants). The day we said goodbye to Defence Force Recruiting (DFR), the day we said hello again to DFR. The days Jake has cringed at my inappropriateness (there have been many). The sequins still on the floor both at Collins Street, and FWP (and there are lots). All part of a wonderful life in advertising. I will cherish all those wonderful times for ever.
Said everyone at VMLY&R, ‘We want to thank Chris for bringing so much fun and joy to so many people at VMLY&R. We will miss him dearly, but we are thrilled he gets to spend more time with friends and family after such a wonderful career with us. We will enjoy watching his Instagram content become increasingly colourful and fabulous.
