Derek has worked in TV production for over 20 years across all genres and helped to run some of the UK’s biggest and smallest independent production companies.

Since 2021, Derek has been an instrumental force behind the success of Saffron Cherry with his wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and extensive expertise which bolsters the company’s slate. His adept leadership has played a pivotal role in steering numerous high-profile productions to fruition, solidifying Saffron Cherry’s position in the industry. Beyond his contribution to Saffron Cherry, Derek wears multiple hats also being the Managing Director of Nest Productions, Honeybird Studios and GreenRed Media.

Prior to working with Saffron Cherry and Nest, Derek was the Head of Production for Lime Pictures where he helped to run the company from a commercial perspective as well as ensuring all productions in unscripted ran smoothly. Derek was also Production Executive at Monkey Kingdom for many years and an in-house Line Producer for CBBC drama and CBeebies where he learned his craft.

Derek is a member of BAFTA, RTS and is the Chair of The Head of Production Group as well as being part of the Edinburgh TV Festival steering committee.