Obituary: Harry Pappafloratos

Haralambos (Harry) Pappafloratos, the CEO of Colmar Brunton New Zealand, died on the 19^th of February at the age of 55, after being diagnosed with cancer three years ago.

Pappafloratos began his market research career with Survey Research (now Research International) in the 1970s, and then took up a post with ad agency Charles Haines, before beginning a 12 year career with AC Nielsen New Zealand.

In 2003, he joined Millward Brown-owned Colmar Brunton to open the firm's office in Wellington. He was promoted to the post of CEO in 2009.

Colmar Brunton Chairman Dick Brunton - who worked with Pappafloratos at Survey Research in the late 70s - commented: 'Harry was inspirational. He blended some advertising showmanship with marketing research - the mix was very attractive and, in my view, advanced the reputation of marketing research.

'More than that, he was a great person, kind, genuinely caring and compassionate and very well-liked and appreciated, not just in New Zealand, but beyond in the Millward Brown empire. He has touched so many lives, not just in health, but also when he walked through the valley of the shadow of death.'

Pappafloratos is survived by his two sons Tom and Sam and his brother Jerry. Last Wednesday, he was 'farewelled' at Greek Orthodox Church, The Cathedral of the Annunciation, which was overflowing with mourners from the Wellington Greek community, as well as colleagues and clients. His body will be interred in Greece.

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.