Lazarus inducted into DMA Hall of Fame

Shelly Lazarus, chairwoman of Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide, became the latest industry luminary to be inducted into the Direct Marketing Association's Hall of Fame. Lazarus was honored by the association on October 20 at its annual conference in San Diego.

It is the second time the group has honored Lazarus. DMA named her Woman of the Year in 2002.

Lazarus began her career at Ogilvy in account services and held various positions of increasing responsibility at the company, including president of Ogilvy & Mather Direct North America and CEO of Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide. She worked alongside legendary founder David Ogilvy, who famously called direct marketing his “secret weapon.”

“She is a powerhouse among direct marketers and her support of the direct marketing community is all-encompassing,” said John Greco, president and CEO of the DMA. “She is truly deserving of this great honor."

Separately, the DMA tapped Zurich Financial Services Group, a global insurance company, and retailer Best Buy as its 2009 Marketers of the Year. That award traditionally recognizes one individual or company for achievement, innovation and leadership in direct marketing.