2014 Outstanding Alumni

Born in The Netherlands and raised in El Paso, Texas, Craig Rettig graduated from Texas Tech University in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising. While a student at Texas Tech, Rettig was a member of the first pledge class of Pi Delta Alpha, the official media and communication fraternity. He also worked with the advertising department of The University Daily newspaper. Rettig has served on the College of Media & Communication's National Professional Advisory Board since 2011.

Rettig began his career in advertising as assistant account executive at Della Femina McNamee where he managed marketing for G. Heileman Brewing Company's Henry Weinhard's and Rainer beer brands. He has also served as account executive at N.W. Ayer advertising agency, Suissa Miller Advertising and Ketchum Inc. public relations firm. Some of Rettig's past clients have included Doubletree Hotels, Harvey's Resort & Casino and Acura.

In 1996, Rettig began working at Davis Elen Advertising where he eventually became vice president and managing supervisor. During his time at Davis Elen, Rettig led a successful campaign to reposition the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, which led to increased sales and game attendance. The success of the campaign led to working with the Staples Center Arena and Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team as well.

Rettig then began working at Praxis where he became senior vice president and director of client services. During this time, Rettig led a rebranding of multiple colleges at the University of Southern California and also led a successful student recruitment marketing campaign. He also led the rebranding of Los Angeles International Airport during its redevelopment phase.

In 2013, Rettig launched Perceptiva communications firm in Los Angeles where he currently serves as partner and owner. At Perceptiv, Rettig is responsible for agency and account management, business development and strategic planning. Current clients include University of Southern California, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Los Angeles International Airport, Ernst & Young, Whittier Trust and Bridgewater Healthcare.

When not working, Rettig enjoys spending time with his wife, Karen, and two sons, Nico and Theo. Some of his hobbies include skiing and traveling. Rettig was able to travel extensively while his family lived abroad in Paris from 2005 until 2006. Rettig has also guest lectured at the University of Southern California, Woodbury University and the Fashion Institute of Design And Merchandising.