Bio

ABOUT DEREK

Derek is a California native and self-avowed geek with 20+ years as a fiction writer, graphic designer, and video post-producer. His writing style has been described as wistful and introspective with a sense of hopeful spirit.

Derek can often be found with an Xbox game controller in hand and his sweet, 16-year-old tabby cat curled up on his lap. His favorite things include the Fallout game series, jaunts to the gym, learning Spanish, and anything Star Trek.

Writing, Public Speaking

Derek has been a writer since he was a wee lad. In high school he was yearbook editor for two years, and though those years are long passed, they played a big role in fostering his love of writing and publishing. Since then, Derek has written dozens of short stories—some serious, others ridiculous—and in 2004 he completed his first full-length novel, Rift in the Mountain.

In 2016 Derek joined Toastmasters to boost to his public speaking skills. He took on the role of VP of Public Relations and was soon elected club President. In these leadership roles Derek proudly helped others to achieve their personal & professional ambitions.

Creative Management, Team Building, Hospitality

Derek launched his Hospitality career in the late 90s as a front desk agent at the Hotel Vintage Court, an upscale Kimpton Hotel Group boutique property in downtown San Francisco. He quickly advanced to Reservations Manager and Revenue Manger and later took a position at the 4-star French restaurant, Masa’s, managing the reservations staff. More recently, Derek obtained his Hospitality Management certification through Cornell University’s eCornell program, and currently works as Lead House Manager at The Metro Hotel in San Francisco. Derek has always enjoyed working with the public and with empathetic colleagues focused on a shared goal.

Graphic Design, Video Editing & Post Production Management

In the late 2000s, Derek made a career shift to Graphic Design and Video Production, ultimately landing at CNE Media, a.k.a. Kink.com. At CNE he managed a department of staff video editors and contractors, while coordinating with off-site film directors and their crews to schedule delivery of raw material, editing, production and online publishing. He wrapped his tenure at CNE in April 2022 after 8 years.

For more about Derek’s professional background view his profile on LinkedIn.