An Original Octagon

After more than three action packed decades, Octagon’s Group Head of Marketing and PR, David Smith, is retiring from the company.

A very popular and much loved personality within the industry, David was one of the original Octagon Eight who joined the company 36 years ago. His easy going manner and jovial outlook often belied his extensive in-depth knowledge of the luxury market, something he was always keen to share and discuss with his colleagues in the press. Also his bold and memorable advertising campaigns in the nationals paved the way for the successful expansion of the new homes luxury market.

When not dreaming up the next ad or brochure, David, as a true bon viveur, could be relied upon to find the best restaurant in the most unlikely of areas, much to the amusement and delight of journalist guests. He also ‘converted’ many of us into fair weather sailors.

As an experienced skipper, David handles a yacht with effortless ease, generously sharing his knowledge and making us all believe by the end of a day on the Solent, we were just as good as he was, helming, sail trimming and anchoring all seemed a piece of cake under the watchful eye of Captain Smith.

Forever generous, David commented,

“It has been a real privilege to work with some of the finest, most professional people in our industry. I have enjoyed every minute of my three score plus years at one of the most inspirational yet civilised companies in the UK, if not the world. I shall miss my daily meetings with friends and colleagues, but suspect they might not miss my jokes.”

Adieu David, you will be much missed.