Derek Distenfield is an accomplished entrepreneur, growth strategist, and COO & Co-founder of GSD Venture Studios. He has spent over 15 years working in startups, corporations, governments, and nonprofit organizations, delivering explosive growth and implementing innovative solutions.

Distenfield is known for his operational and growth expertise, having worked as the Chief Operating Officer for 360 Payments, transforming Bunker Labs into a premier national brand, and developing a product that grew NextGenJustice's consumer base by 50% in 17 of 18 months. He is also a frequent keynote speaker, advisor, and mentor and has lectured on startup growth at leading universities.

Education-wise, he studied Aeronautics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and got an MBA in International Business from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Distenfield currently lives in Silicon Valley and travels worldwide to work with GSD Venture Studio's portfolio businesses. Analytic Insight Magazine recognized him as a 40 under 40 innovator for his work in redefining the future of tech through cutting-edge innovation, while Yahoo.com called him one of 2020's most influential people.