After almost two decades in the ad industry VMLY&R concierge Christopher Pedley retires
VMLY&R has announced that concierge Christopher Pedley is retiring. There are not many long-term advertising folk in Melbourne who haven’t crossed paths with Christopher Pedley.
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.
Says Jake Barrow, group executive creative director: “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.
Says Pedley: “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.”
Says 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.”
15 Comments
The greatest to ever do it x
Legend! You make places better Peddles. Thank you.
Chris,
You possess the most precious gift of all – you make people happy. And you do it by just being you. Universally loved and respected, the industry is much richer for your contribution.
An ad industry ‘treasure’! You will be seriously missed. Congratulations Chris and good luck!!
Congratulations Christopher on a wonderful career. It was a joy to work with you for twelve of those years.
He wont remember me but as a young photographer coming in all nervous to show my books I remember feeling instantly at ease and relaxed once he ushered me the big tables at Collins St. Thats the mark of a generous and kind human. Best wishes for the future!
Marvellous innings Chris. One of a kind.
I’m no longer in the building, but was truly blessed to work at 161 Collins & Southbank with Peddles front-of-house.
I’ve gotta say it didn’t matter how intense, stressed, or insane your days were – he was always there as a brilliant, dazzling and unique ray of sunshine to swing-kick all the clouds away with a flourish. You just couldn’t be grumpy around this guy! And I tried – a lot! The displays he put together on front desk (the barbie dolls were legendary), the egg hunts he ran for the kiddies, the refined outfits, the hilarious special-occasion costumes, the endless supply of wit, laughs and keys to the pinot cupboard – they were all appreciated in equal measure.
Good-on-ya Chris! And thank you – in more ways than you can ever imagine. You were, are and will always be amazing.
Had the pleasure of meeting Chris for the first time yesterday, let’s just say he made an impression. Shame we won’t be seeing more of him!
But you must have been amazing to make it to retirement age in this industry.
Back in the day every agency had a Chris or to be honest,more likely a Christine.
Some were legends (hello Triska wherever you are) and they all bought laughter,love and levity when it was most needed.Now,I doubt if these naturally gifted people would pass the first proprietary online psycho suitability test,let alone get to speak to an actual HR person.
Thank you Mr Pedley,from not just VMLY&Y,but the whole industry.
Absolute legend. The industry is a sadder place without Chris.
Well it certainly appears that the move from your first agency job (in the accounts department as a debt collector) has worked out pretty well, don’t you think?
Chris you are an an institution, an inspiration and a friend to all.
Congratulations on being the smiling face, great friend and confidant to so many.
George Patts, GPY&R, VMLY&R and SRG would never have been the same without you.
Enjoy the next adventure, I’m sure it will be grand.
Peders. What a run. As Russ would say, onya.
We salute you Mr Pedley- best of luck from the Gang.