Derek works with brands to create social systems that drive engagement and produce results. Prior to joining the Creative Shop at Facebook, Derek was a creative director who helped brands gain the most impact within digital channels. With 10 years experience across multiple verticals, he's created award-winning work with Bank of America, Samsung, Pepsi Co., Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Hasbro, and Specialized Bicycles. He’s led and directed cross-disciplinary conceptual development, pitches, and execution of short-term (project specific) and long-term (account specific) creative digital strategies. He often collaborates with marketing agencies to develop executions that leverage the Facebook platform to deliver on business goals. A graduate of Parsons School of Design, Derek received a BBA in marketing while focusing on interactive design. In his off time, Derek loves to ride his bike and dabble with MIDI music composing. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and daughter.
influences
questionnaire
What was your very first job?
An exterminator.
Please describe, in your own words, what your job is and what work it entails.
Collaborate with brands to help share their stories with the world.
How did you discover that the creative world was right for you? Was there a time in your life that you credit to this discovery? What was there a train of events that brought you to where you are today?
My grandfather owned an offset printing company for half a century. I felt it was my duty to help grow the family business and became obsessed with print design in the process. During college I realized the digital world was my calling. My roommates taught me how to use code to bring design to life… whether animation, interactive or static. The only thing that got me to where I am today is the willingness to let go of what I’ve mastered and always being in a state of failing and learning.
In your constantly growing and expanding industry, how do you find inspiration to keep your work fresh, innovative and relevant?
I’m obsessed with history and the lives of innovators from generations ago. Carl Fabergé, Washington Roebling, Walt Disney… the list goes on and on. I look to past masters to help me try and see into the future.
If you had to pick one piece of work or project that you are most proud of, more for the creative work and innovation it required, rather than its recognition or industry “success,” what would it be?
Ideally, marketing can both give and take. Years ago I worked with a team at PUR Water to transform engagement into donations of clean drinking water to those less fortunate. It was my first app developed using the connectivity of Facebook to spread a message that both gave back to the world while building a brand.