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Derek Bruner
Director, Board Relations and Strategic Initiatives
Professional Background
Derek Bruner is an accomplished professional with a diverse background straddling the fields of music, public administration, and nonprofit management. He currently serves as the Director of Board Relations and Strategic Initiatives at CHOC Children's, a role in which he plays a crucial part in shaping the strategic direction of the organization. His passion for children's health and commitment to excellence drives his initiatives, ensuring that the community continues to benefit from innovative healthcare solutions.
Prior to his role at CHOC Children's, Derek demonstrated his competence and leadership at The Wooden Floor, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth through dance and education. There, he advanced through several positions, initially joining as an Executive and Artistic Associate, where he helped to bridge the artistic vision with operational execution. His journey at The Wooden Floor continued as the Strategic Operations Administrator and later as the Director of Strategic Initiatives, demonstrating his ability to drive impactful programs while collaborating with stakeholders.
Derek's career began with a foundational role in accounts receivable at Bruner & Rosi Management Inc., where he honed his administrative and operational skills. This early experience set the stage for his later accomplishments and deep understanding of organizational management.
Education and Achievements
Derek's academic journey is equally impressive. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Composition from Chapman University, a prestigious institution known for its robust music program. His time at Chapman not only nurtured his artistic talent but also instilled a strong sense of discipline and commitment to his craft, which he has carried into his professional roles.
In addition to his music degree, Derek pursued a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Brandman University, part of the Chapman University System. This advanced education equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of public service and nonprofit management effectively. His MPA studies allowed him to focus on areas such as strategic planning, organizational behavior, and community development, which have been instrumental in his career trajectory.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Derek has made notable contributions that have positively impacted the organizations he has worked for and the communities they serve. As the Director of Board Relations and Strategic Initiatives at CHOC Children's, he effectively communicates with board members, ensuring alignment with the organization's vision and goals. His strategic initiatives have led to enhanced engagement and support for the institution's mission across various stakeholders.
At The Wooden Floor, Derek played a vital role in advancing the organization’s impact on youth by implementing strategic plans that improved educational outcomes and artistic opportunities for students. His holistic approach combines artistic expression with essential life skills, statistics show that participants often improve not just in dance but in academic performance as well.
Derek’s work is characterized by his dedication to fostering collaborative environments where creativity and initiative thrive. His ability to build relationships across diverse groups and create meaningful partnerships has been one of the hallmarks of his career. Derek's unique blend of artistic and administrative expertise sets him apart in the nonprofit sector, enabling him to approach challenges from unique angles and propose innovative solutions.
In summary, Derek Bruner’s multifaceted career reflects a genuine commitment to fostering positive change in communities through strategic initiatives that leverage both the arts and public administration. With a solid foundation in music and advanced education in public service, he continues to inspire those around him to pursue excellence in their respective fields.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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