John Grono is retiring after a distinguished career spanning nearly five decades in the media and research sectors.

Grono is widely recognised for his significant contributions to the Australian media and advertising landscape, including the introduction of TV people meters and the launch of OMD in Australia. His achievements were acknowledged in 2014 when he was inducted into the Media Federation of Australia (MFA) Hall of Fame.

Grono began his career in 1977 at ACNielsen, where he worked as a retail panel statistician. He played a pivotal role in the development of Media Advisor, the first system globally to deliver overnight TV ratings to personal computers. In 1997, Grono joined Clemenger BBDO as National Media Research Director and later became Media Director of the Sydney office.

His contributions to media research continued with the introduction of OMD-Lighthouse, an early econometric modelling tool. Grono was also part of the team that launched OMD Australia in 2000. In 2002, he established GAP Research, an independent media research consultancy.

Throughout his career, Grono has served on numerous cross-industry committees, including the OzTAM Technical Advisory Committee and the IAB Australia Measurement Council. His work has contributed to major industry measurement advancements such as MOVE for the Outdoor Media Association and CineTAM for Val Morgan.

Sophie Madden, CEO of the Media Federation of Australia, described Grono as the ultimate changer and an unwavering force in advancing the industry’s research capabilities.

"His passion, depth of knowledge and tireless dedication have set a benchmark for integrity, innovation and collaboration. It’s no exaggeration to say that John has perhaps contributed more than anyone else to ensuring the strength and evolution of our industry’s research product. We thank him for his extraordinary service and wish him all the very best in his well-earned retirement," she said.

Peter Horgan, a media consultant and former CEO of Omnicom Media Group, reflected on his 30-year association with Grono both as an agency and industry colleague.

"I’ve been constantly humbled by his passion for the craft, his deep expertise, and his all-round decency as a truly wonderful human being. It was a privilege to announce his induction into the MFA Hall of Fame in 2014. Farewell, old friend – on behalf of a grateful industry, we’re all hoping you enjoy a richly deserved retirement."

Gai Le Roy, CEO of IAB Australia, praised Grono's impact on the industry: "The industry is a far better place thanks to John Grono’s incredible expertise and passion. His sharp thinking, deep knowledge, and willingness to challenge the status quo have played a huge role in making the Australian media measurement market one of the most respected in the world. But beyond the smarts, John has always been incredibly generous with his time, his ideas, and his support for others. He’s been a mentor to many, including me, and a constant presence in shaping the industry for the better. I feel very fortunate to have worked alongside John on so many projects over the last two decades and to have learned so much from him along the way."

Barry O’Brien, Founder and Chairman of Atomic 212, was another expressing his gratitude: "What an honour to say a few words about John Grono who I have known for over four decades. John is an absolute gentleman, highly caring and an extremely smart media man with a large twist of Research Geek in his portfolio. The media industry and our level of research capability in this country is all the better for the media research roles and steering committees John Grono sat on and contributed to over his stellar career. Thank you, John, for a massive contribution to the media industry and the MFA, and your well-deserved MFA Hall of Fame award in 2014."

Monique Perry, Managing Director, Pacific, Nielsen Audience Measurement, highlighted Grono's mentorship: "John Grono is a true gentleman, a trusted advisor, and an independent voice in our industry. John’s been the go-to for guidance on media measurement, leaving an extraordinary legacy across our industry, people, and approach to measurement innovation. Thank you for your passion, honesty, and solution-focused approach. Your decades of dedication to independent measurement’s vital role in the buying and selling of all media is deeply appreciated. And thank you for being a wonderful teacher, an active listener, and a patient mentor for nearly 30 years. You have been an enduring influence on my career and a dear friend in my life."