Derek S.

Derek S. is a seasoned design professional with extensive experience in the gaming industry, currently serving as Design Director at Zynga and as a Games & Technology Advisor for Noctua Interactive, inc. Previously, Derek held the position of Design Director at Deviation Games, overseeing a AAA first-person shooter project, and served as Creative Director at Amazon Games, where innovative game concepts and prototypes were developed. Additional roles include Principal Game Designer at Disruptive Games and KIXEYE, where leadership and mentorship were key components. Derek co-founded SUM Interactive, a mobile game studio, and has contributed to academic programs as an adjunct professor at Laguna College of Art and Design. Derek holds a Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design from The Art Institutes.