‘He was a giant, a beacon, a true partner to many’: David Ford, Ogilvy

Piyush Pandey’s journey from a cricketer in Jaipur to the creative powerhouse of Indian advertising is a story in itself. When he joined Ogilvy in the early ’80s, the industry was still trying to imitate Western sensibilities. But Pandey brought a distinctly Indian rhythm to storytelling, one filled with emotion, humour and cultural texture. His belief that advertising should speak in the language of the people, not to them, reshaped how brands connected with everyday India.

Over the decades, Pandey’s campaigns became more than just memorable ads, they became part of India’s collective memory. From Cadbury’s Kuch Khaas Hai to Fevicol’s witty tales of unbreakable bonds, his work reflected the simplicity and spirit of real life. He made advertising less about selling and more about celebrating the way India feels, laughs and lives, leaving behind a legacy that will keep inspiring storytellers for generations.

David Ford, Global Chief Communications Officer, Ogilvy says, “Today, like so many at Ogilvy, I find myself at a loss for words because one of the most generous, caring, and intuitive people I’ve ever worked with—Piyush Pandey—is no longer with us. He was a giant, a beacon, a true partner to many. He taught me the word “partner” wasn’t just a title—it was a promise, a belief that we do this together. He taught so many of us that an idea isn’t owned by one person—it belongs to the team. That leadership doesn’t mean standing above—it means standing beside. And that giving someone the permission to belong is, in many ways, the greatest gift of all. Piyush brought warmth, insight, and deep humanity to everything he touched. For so many Piyush will be remembered by how he made them feel.”

“I will miss his infectious laugh, his fearless creativity, his trademark mustache. I will miss hearing him say “Thanks, partner,” and knowing he meant it in every sense of the word. Thank you, Piyush, for believing in me. For making me feel like I was part of the fabric of Ogilvy—and, by extension, part of something greater than myself. Rest in peace, dear partner. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten,” David adds.