AMI launches award to honour Lisa Ronson’s legacy in marketing leadership
Chris Taylor: 'Lisa championed creativity, accountability and above all, people'.
The Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) has introduced a new award in tribute to the late marketing leader Lisa Ronson.
The Lisa Ronson Next Generation Leader Award will form part of the 2025 AMI Marketing Excellence Awards, spotlighting rising talent in the industry while celebrating Ronson’s legacy of creativity, mentorship and strategic leadership.
Ronson, who died in late 2024 following an accident, was widely regarded as one of Australia’s most respected marketing voices.
Her career spanned over 25 years, with high-profile CMO roles at Medibank, Coles, and Tourism Australia. The new award reflects not only her professional accomplishments but also her unwavering support for the next generation of marketers.
A legacy rooted in mentorship and generosity
At the heart of the new award is the recognition of emerging marketers who demonstrate early leadership potential, creativity and a willingness to mentor others, qualities Ronson embodied throughout her career.
Her husband, Chris Taylor, a co-founder of My Shortcut and AMI board member, expressed his deep appreciation for the initiative. “Lisa championed creativity, accountability and above all, people,” Taylor said.
“She believed in supporting others and was a tireless mentor to many across the industry. To see her legacy acknowledged in this way is a beautiful reminder of the impact she made.”
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Ronson had long been involved with AMI, including as an ambassador for its Emerging Marketers program.
AMI CEO Bronwyn Heys described the new award as a natural extension of Ronson’s contributions. “Lisa was a true mentor who championed growth in every young marketer she led,” said Heys. “This award is our way of continuing her legacy and encouraging others who share that same spirit.”
Supporting rising stars with commercial impact
The Lisa Ronson Next Generation Leader Award adds a fresh dimension to the AMI Marketing Excellence Awards, which are now entering their 42nd year.
With a renewed focus on recognising not only creativity and effectiveness but also industry mentorship and cultural contribution, the award aligns with a broader shift toward marketing leadership that balances performance with purpose.
The 2025 program has also been designed with accessibility in mind, offering reduced entry fees and bonus AMI membership for non-members.
Entries for the 2025 AMI Marketing Excellence Awards close on Friday, 6 June. Winners will be announced at a gala event at Sydney’s Ivy Ballroom on 15 August.
