Highline Warren announced Curt Knapp, chief operating officer of lubricants, will retire at the end of 2023. Knapp has served in leadership roles at Highline Warren and its predecessor companies for more than 12 years and is a known leader in the lubricants industry across the US, the company said.
Knapp launched his career at Texaco Chemical Additives in 1980. Since then, he has held various and expanding senior executive roles at Castrol North America, Sunoco, Safety-Kleen/Clean Harbors and Highline Warren.
“With more than 35 years of experience in the lubricants business, Curt has been a known leader, force for change and constant source of knowledge across the industry,” said Darcy Curran, Highline Warren chief executive officer. “He has worked tirelessly to create new strategies and options for customers and suppliers, while positioning the company and our teammates for success in the future. While bittersweet to share this news, we are better because of his leadership and wish him the very best as he retires.”
Given his extensive knowledge and senior role at the company, the Highline Warren leadership team has worked closely with Knapp to ensure a seamless transition for its customers, suppliers and employees. He will continue to advise the team through year-end, the company said.
“Over my career, I have been very fortunate to work with dedicated teams that have rolled up their sleeves to tackle difficult challenges and deliver solutions,” Knapp said. “It’s because of the strength of the Highline Warren team and the confidence I have in the company’s future that I am ready to step away and begin this next chapter of my life. I am thankful and proud to close my career at Highline Warren. While I will miss the team, I will be cheering loudly from the sidelines and look forward to seeing what our people continue to achieve.”
Knapp currently resides in and plans to retire in Scottsdale, Ariz. He and his wife look forward to spending time with family and traveling the world. Knapp will also assume the role of board chair for First Tee of Phoenix in January, allowing him to pursue his passion of helping improve the lives of underserved children and tap into his love for golf, while also leveraging his business savvy.
