New York: The media industry is mourning the loss of Patricia “Pat” Heintz, a beloved figure at Havas Media Network, who passed away after serving the company for over three decades. Known as the “Mother” of Havas Media, Pat was the first person to greet clients, partners, and employees at the agency’s New York offices with her signature warmth and care. Her passing marks the end of an era for the global media network, and her impact is being fondly remembered across the industry.
Pat Heintz joined Havas Media on August 13, 1990, as Director of Guest Relations and quickly became the heart and soul of the organization. Over the years, she earned a unique reputation for her ability to make everyone feel welcome — a quality that many who knew her say set her apart from others in the industry. Pat’s presence became synonymous with Havas Media’s culture, making her a familiar and comforting figure to both internal staff and external visitors.
In a tribute shared by Havas Media on their LinkedIn handle, the company reflected on her profound impact:
“For 33 remarkable years, Patricia Heintz—‘Pat’ to everyone who knew her—was the heart of Havas Media Network and a beloved figure across the entire media community.
As the first face everyone saw when they walked through our doors, Pat welcomed countless clients, partners, and industry leaders with her signature warmth and care. Her ability to make every person feel special earned her a unique kind of fame in our industry — she was the familiar, comforting presence everyone looked forward to seeing.
Pat treated us all as her ‘kids,’ creating a sense of family within Havas. Her impact was immeasurable, touching lives with kindness, humor, and love that will be remembered far and wide.
Today, we honor her extraordinary legacy and celebrate the life of someone who made an indelible mark on our company and community. Rest in peace, Pat — you’ll forever be in our hearts.”
A Legacy Built on Relationships
Pat was more than just a welcoming presence at Havas Media; she was instrumental in shaping the agency’s culture. Her “Getting to Know You” initiative, a monthly social gathering aimed at fostering relationships outside of the office, became a core part of Havas Media’s efforts to build a connected workplace. This eventually evolved into the New York Village HXC Happy Hour, a tradition that still brings employees together to this day.
Her influence extended beyond the walls of Havas Media. Pat was widely recognized across the media and advertising industry as someone who made every interaction personal and meaningful. For many, her presence at industry events and client meetings became a highlight, making her a familiar and comforting figure in a fast-paced and competitive business.
Adapting Through Change
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when much of the media industry moved to remote work, Pat continued to demonstrate her unique ability to connect with people. She maintained personal communications with employees and ensured that the company’s spirit of community didn’t waver. Pat often started her day by sharing a piece of advice or a joke with her colleagues to lift spirits during challenging times.
Her dedication to maintaining Havas Media’s culture of care and connection has left a lasting legacy that colleagues say will be remembered for years to come.
An Industry Icon
Pat Heintz’s contributions went far beyond her formal role as Director of Guest Relations. For many in the media community, she embodied what it means to create meaningful human connections in a business that often prioritizes numbers and data. Her ability to build relationships, make people feel special, and foster a sense of belonging has been widely recognized by those in the media industry.
Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and industry leaders, all of whom describe her as a nurturing and inspiring presence.
Remembering Pat
As the media industry reflects on Pat Heintz’s extraordinary career, her legacy serves as a reminder that human connections remain at the heart of business success. Her warmth, humor, and care have left an imprint on Havas Media and the wider industry that will not be forgotten.
In an industry driven by change and innovation, Pat Heintz represented something timeless — the power of kindness and connection. Her passing is a significant loss to the media community, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
Rest in peace, Pat Heintz. The media world will forever remember you as a beacon of warmth and humanity in an ever-evolving industry.
