Derek is a journalist, corporate storyteller, and communications professional with over 30 years of experience across various industries. For Vizias, he serves as the managing director and communications coordinator for the Austin Forum on Technology & Society.

Prior to Vizias and the Austin Forum, Derek served as a strategic communications leader at IBM, where he collaborated closely with marketing and software vice presidents to develop internal communication strategies and organize impactful events. One of his notable achievements at IBM was helping to establish the company’s first internal case studies team.

Before IBM, Derek was the business development director and senior producer at Castleview Productions, an Austin-based agency. His work focused on driving new business and producing corporate videos for clients like EY, Cirrus Logic, The Austin Business Journal, and The University of Texas at Austin.

Derek’s journey in development started at his alma mater, UT Austin. As the Assistant Director of Development for the Moody College of Communication, he helped secure funding for the Belo Center for New Media and built meaningful relationships with hundreds of alumni across the country.

His primary career was in broadcast journalism as a news and sports anchor and reporter in major markets like Dallas, Philadelphia, San Diego, Portland, and Austin. Along the way, Derek won two Emmy Awards and several local honors for his exceptional reporting and on-air work.

An Austin native, Derek proudly bleeds burnt orange! When he’s not cheering on the Longhorns at a game, you’ll likely find him traveling, playing pickleball, or crafting cocktails—and enjoying them too! He’s a fan of bourbon-based drinks but loves a refreshing gin and tonic during Austin’s hot summer days. Derek and his wife, Veronica, live downtown and are proud parents to their son, Jared.