Written by: Sir Ridley Scott
Good evening.
I'm sorry I can't be there in person to present this prestigious award acknowledging a vital
contribution to the British advertising industry.
I hope this award is an inspiration - and as I once said to the tonight’s recipient when I
handed her the keys to my company - please, don't fuck it up!
I'm delighted to present this Fellowship to Kai-Lu Hsiung, who has been a devoted leader
of RSA for nearly 25 years!
Kai has overseen the production of over 2,000 commercials and music videos and the
innovation of brand entertainment. More than that, Kai has nurtured excellence of production,
often overlooked but vital for the creative industry.
She has been a sympathetic manager of creative talent and has also identified fresh and
emerging talent, an essential part of growth.
I saw a great candidate in Kai to take on the leadership of RSA. With grace and patience,
she produces under pressure. Great production is essentially crisis management.
RSA and Kai went on to win some of the biggest awards in advertising. It must also be said,
and I have heard from reliable sources that from Cannes to Christmas, she knows how to
throw a damn good RSA party.
Many of you have seen firsthand how Kai conducts herself with patience and kindness,
showing equal reverence to interns and Creatives. I like to think that those of you who have
been fortunate enough to work with her have adopted these values.
Kai continues to champion new talent providing essential support to young people.
Most weeks you can find her mentoring young creatives. How lucky they are to learn from
one of the best in British advertising production.
With thanks and much appreciation, congratulations Kai.
Goodnight!