"A patriarch, innovator and true entreprenuer" Sir Martin Sorrell pays tribute to Jean-Claude Decaux
The death of the founder of JCDecaux, Jean Claude Decaux has been described by WWP chief executive Sir Martin Sorrell as "very sad news."
Speaking to The Drum, Sir Martin paid tribute to Decaux, who passed away at the age of 78 on Friday (27 May), describing him as "a patriarch, innovator and true entrepreneur, who built a sustainable, long-term brand in out-of-home and incredible share owner value."
He added that Decaux was "an example to all of us" and said that "all at WPP wish his family long life."
Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy posted a message to Facebook in response to his death, calling him an “outstanding inventor” whose “work is an inspiration and courage to all young entrepreneurs” in France.
Decaux stepped down as chief executive of JCDecaux in 2000, handing the reigns to his two sons but was honorary chairman of the board since May 2013.
The company confirmed his death but no further details have been released at the time of writing.