‘JG believes that even in a demanding industry, we can lead with rigor and humanity’

“If you are reading this, it means I am no more and have lost my battle with cancer,” read a self-written note on his LinkedIn account. “This note is just a big thank you to all of you. Thank you for the joy, for sharing your struggles, for your help with studying, and for being a group of quality people who enrich my life. I wish you all the best in the years to come!”

“JG meant a lot to many of us at OpenX, and our deepest condolences and sympathies go out to his family and friends during this difficult time,” read an official note from OpenX, which concluded, “JG believed that even in a demanding industry, it was possible to lead with rigor and humanity. We will continue to do so.”

Gentry is one of advertising technology’s pioneering executives, holding several roles at OpenX since 2012, culminating a distinguished career that previously saw him work at startups, including Spot Runner and Green Dot, as well as at corporate entities such as Disney and Overture.

John leads OpenX with a steady hand and great decency, and to know him is to know that he is one of the good guys. The outpouring of love for the man after his death is proof of that. In an industry full of egos and hidden agendas, John is someone who wants to see others thrive. He made himself accessible in the most difficult times and never treated others as stepping stones.

He believes that businesses grow when people feel trusted and respected, and he builds a culture based on that belief. Competitors admire him, colleagues rely on him, and young executives seek him out because he listens more than he teaches.

The world of advertising can be transactional and unforgiving. John proves that it doesn’t have to be that way. He shows that leadership can be ambitious without being cruel, and strong without losing kindness.