In Memoriam: Emma Kate Williams

Emma Kate Williams, talented visual artist and prolific ad tech marketer, died on 3 September at St. Joseph’s Hospice, Hackney. She was 43. Erich Wasserman pens a tribute.

Emma Kate Williams, talented visual artist and prolific ad tech marketer, suffered from leukemia and passed away surrounded by her parents, John and Anne Williams of Aberdovey, Wales, and family and friends.

In professional circles, Emma was respected for her leadership, work and kindness toward her colleagues. She served as Head of UK Business Marketing for Meta; prior she spent six years at MediaMath, as its first Senior Director of Marketing for EMEA, APAC, and LatAM, then VP of Global Marketing.

Emma was born in Stratford-upon-Avon. She earned her degree in English Literature from the University of Manchester, then a diploma from the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing. 

The marketing and advertising community mourned her death: 

Aslihan Ulutas, manager, Meta: “Emma's warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she managed and worked with, creating an environment where colleagues felt valued, seen and empowered. She was a passionate advocate for mental health, diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability. Though she will be forever missed, her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.”

Erich Wasserman, former manager, MediaMath: “Emma was an artist who happened to be a digital marketer. When we met for an interview, we mostly discussed her portfolio of paintings. Her marketing bona fides were already impressive; it was her passion for her art that stood out. Emma brought thoughtfulness, kindness and empathy to our organisation. I feel so fortunate to have known and worked with her.”

Joanna O’Connell, former manager, MediaMath: “Emma taught me so much and she made me better. And that I got her as a friend on the other side of our work together was a gift. I loved her.”

Victoria Usher, colleague, GingerMay: “When I met Emma in 2013, she was inquisitive and curious about the ad tech sector she had joined, and was a joy to work with. My fondest memories were hanging out together at Cannes in various glamorous locations until the early hours. We felt incredibly grateful to be at a ‘work event’ in one of the most opulent locations in the world. Emma was mischievous, professional and free-spirited - all rolled into one.”

Emily Langston, colleague, MediaMath UK: “Emma was an inspiration for other women. Headstrong and passionate, she turned many colleagues into lifelong friends and cared deeply about those closest to her. She will be greatly missed.”

Lauren Fritzky, colleague, MediaMath: “She was a great collaborator at work, brilliant at her job and so much fun. She became a confidante and friend. After my daughter was born, she'd send me pictures of herself as a child because she thought they looked so much alike (they do!).”

A humanist service will be held at 2:30pm Friday 4th October 2024 at South Chapel, The City of London Crematorium, Aldersbrook Road, E12 5DQ, with a celebration following at The Cat & Mutton. Emma requested that attendees wear something green, a favorite colour that she felt complimented her natural red-headed beauty.

Further remembrances are welcome at her Just Giving page where, in lieu of flowers, Emma requested donations to University College London Hospitals and St Joseph’s hospice.