In Loving Memory of Greg Knipp, CEO of Dieste – A Leader, A Friend, A Remarkable Human Being
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beloved CEO, Greg Knipp. This is not just the loss of a leader—it is the loss of a mentor, a friend, and a deeply cherished member of the Dieste family. Greg was the heartbeat of our agency, and his passing has left an emptiness that words can hardly capture.
Greg was so much more than a title or a role. He was a calming presence in every room he entered, a guiding force during turbulent times, and an unwavering believer in the power of people. He led with quiet confidence and strength, not by demanding excellence, but by inspiring it in all of us. His belief in collaboration, empathy, and trust defined the culture at Dieste. He gave us room to grow, freedom to explore, and support when we stumbled. That kind of leadership is rare, and we were incredibly lucky to have it.
No matter what challenges came our way—tight deadlines, shifting markets, long nights—Greg never lost his composure. He had a gift for perspective. While the rest of us were caught in the storm, Greg would be the one to point out the sliver of sunlight breaking through the clouds. His optimism wasn’t naive—it was deliberate, earned, and deeply rooted in his belief in people and the power of creativity.
To work with Greg was to feel seen, heard, and respected. He made everyone feel like they mattered. Whether you were presenting a campaign, having a tough day, or simply sharing a laugh over coffee, Greg brought presence and humanity into every interaction. He didn’t just care about the work—he cared about the people behind the work. His impact reached far beyond the walls of our office. It touched our homes, our families, and our lives.
Greg played an instrumental role in shaping Dieste into what it is today: a place where diverse voices come together to create bold, culturally rich ideas. Under his leadership, Dieste became not just an agency, but a community built on trust, creativity, and mutual respect. He was fiercely committed to nurturing talent and elevating the next generation of leaders. He didn’t just want to lead—he wanted to lift others up.
Outside of the office, Greg was first and foremost a devoted husband and father. His love for his family was evident in everything he did. He often spoke of them with pride and joy, and he made it clear that, for all of his professional success, his greatest role was the one he held at home.
We extend our deepest love and sympathy to Greg’s family. Our hearts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. Please know that your loss is shared by many, and that Greg’s legacy will live on through all of us who had the honor of working with him, learning from him, and being inspired by him.
In the days and weeks ahead, we will find ways to celebrate Greg’s life and legacy, to honor the indelible mark he left on our agency and our lives. While the grief is deep, so too is our gratitude—for the years we had with him, for the lessons he taught us, and for the love he shared so generously.
Rest in peace, Greg Knipp. Thank you for everything. You led with heart, and that will never be forgotten.
