Celebrating Liz Nelson

Friends and former colleagues of Liz Nelson gathered on Wednesday 18 March to celebrate her life, at an event organised by AMSR in association with the MRS and the Research Network. A giant and pioneer of the industry, Liz died almost exactly year ago.

At Verian’s Millbank offices, individuals from various stages and aspects of her life stood up to recall her qualities and achievements. Invited speakers included Debrah Harding, Marc Drake, Phyllis Vangelder, Jane Frost and John Bittleston (the last two through video recordings); following their contributions, Jim Rothman and Simon Galvin added further reminiscences ‘from the floor’.

Consistent themes running through all of their contributions were Liz’s imagination, warmth and generosity of spirit, along with a capacity for deep and enduring friendships. These qualities underpinned her sometimes slightly chaotic but always inspiring thirst for innovation in the fields of market and (especially) social research.

Thanks go to AMSR (specifically Richard Asquith and Natalie Cook), the MRS (notably Debrah Harding, who chaired the formal element), Cobalt Sky, Phyllis Macfarlane and Verian UK for their contributions to a heartwarming evening.