IDM founder Derek Holder passes away
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Professor Derek Holder, co-founder and managing director of the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM) has died.
A former Ford, British Airways and Reader’s Digest marketer and consultant and trainer to several major brands, Professor Holder developed the world’s first ever professional qualification in direct marketing, the Diploma in Direct Marketing, in 1981.
He launched forerunner to the IDM, the Direct Marketing Centre in 1986.
IDM’s deputy MD, Neil Morris, says: “Derek has made a lasting contribution to the development of the profession in the modern era, and has influenced the careers of many, many individual practitioners.
“Derek’s passion for marketing education, from undergraduate studies through to continuing professional development, was infectious. His encyclopaedic knowledge of marketing, his incisive business acumen and sense of humour will be sorely missed by all those in the profession.”
Readers' comments (2)
Juliet Hilditch | Mon, 20 Feb 2012 2:05 pm
Thank you Russell. Derek's enormous influence on the marketing profession can't be stated enough. His loss is being felt keenly by many, who remember him with high regard and deep affection - whether they are marketing luminaries or just starting out. If you'd like to contribute your thoughts and memories to a dedicated facebook page, then please do. Or, simply visit if you'd like to read the tributes from others: http://on.fb.me/wugGPk
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Anil Jain | Wed, 22 Feb 2012 8:59 am
Derek was a very talented and experiened marketing professional who imparted his knowledge and skill will ethusiasm and passion. He is the reason why I focussed upon DM and has been the influence to embrace new and emerging techniques. His legacy will live long and his contribution and reach continue. A very sad day indeed, and our thoughts and prayers go to his family at this very sad time.
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