The advertising firm founded by Maurice Saatchi grew by 1986 to become the largest agency globally, managing over 600 offices. Born in Baghdad in 1946 to a textile merchant, his family relocated to London in 1947 to escape the persecution of Iraqi Jews. He later became a central figure in British corporate advertising and politics.
Early Career and Advertising Expansion
After graduating with a degree in sociology from the London School of Economics in 1967, Saatchi worked at Haymarket Publications. In 1970, he partnered with his brother Charles to establish Saatchi & Saatchi. The agency gained significant profile for its 1979 Conservative Party campaign posters and advertisements for Silk Cut cigarettes. The firm achieved rapid global expansion, peaking in size following the acquisition of Ted Bates.
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Following a 1995 shareholder revolt, Saatchi left his namesake firm to establish M&C Saatchi alongside his brother, retaining various creative staff and clients such as British Airways. In 2019, the public company disclosed accounting irregularities totaling £11.6 million, leading to a decline in share price. In December of that year, Saatchi resigned as an executive director amid disagreements regarding the company leadership.
Political and Legislative Influence
Appointed a life peer in 1996, Baron Saatchi served as Conservative Party chairman from 2003 to 2005. His parliamentary tenure included advocating for simpler tax systems and reduced corporate tax for small businesses. Additionally, he championed the Medical Innovation Bill, which passed through parliament to address legal barriers preventing doctors from employing innovative treatments.
Fast facts
- Born: 1946, Baghdad, Iraq
- Education: Tollington School, London School of Economics
- Conservative Party Chairman: 2003–2005
- Life Peer: October 4, 1996
- First Wife: Gillian Osband (m. 1972–1984)
- Second Wife: Josephine Hart (m. 1984–2011)
- Professional Organizations: Saatchi & Saatchi, M&C Saatchi
Questions readers ask
What was the reason for Saatchi's resignation from M&C Saatchi in 2019?
He resigned as an executive director following internal disagreements over the potential removal of CEO David Kershaw after the discovery of accounting irregularities.
What was the purpose of the Medical Innovation Bill?
The bill aimed to allow doctors more freedom to use innovative treatments by reducing the fear of litigation.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Saatchi & Saatchi and M&C Saatchi
- Educated at London School of Economics and Political Science and Tollington School