Derek Newman

Professional Background

Derek Newman is a distinguished Marketplace Product leader with an impressive digital experience that spans both Fortune 100 companies and innovative startups in the technology realm. Currently serving as the Director of Product Management at KUDO, Derek has played a pivotal role in pioneering the KUDO Marketplace, a groundbreaking Language SaaS platform celebrated as one of Time Magazine's Top 100 Inventions of 2021. This accolade not only highlights his exceptional ability to drive product innovation but also underscores his dedication to enhancing user experiences across diverse market segments.

At KUDO, Derek's leadership was instrumental in leading his team to successfully build the first version of KUDO Marketplace, a B2B and B2C web application that has transformed the language service industry. His expertise in product management is further evidenced by his track record in launching successful products and driving market engagement in high-stakes sectors, demonstrating his adaptability and innovative thinking in a competitive landscape.

Education and Achievements

Derek transitioned into the realm of product management after receiving a strong educational foundation in marketing and international business. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Illinois State University, where he gained critical insights into consumer behavior and market dynamics. Further broadening his expertise, Derek studied International Business at the University of the West of England, equipping himself with a global perspective essential for navigating international markets.

Additionally, Derek honed his marketing acumen at The University of Connecticut, positioning him effectively to strategize and lead product initiatives across various industries. His academic background complements his extensive career, allowing him to blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience, thereby creating vibrant product ecosystems that resonate with users and stakeholders alike.

Career Development and Leadership Roles

Derek's career journey is marked by a series of progressive roles in product management that reflect his commitment to excellence and innovation. Before assuming his current role at KUDO, Derek served as Senior Product Manager - Marketplace at KUDO, where he succeeded in enhancing the marketplace offerings, focusing on customer needs and responsiveness to market trends.

Prior to his work at KUDO, Derek's talents were showcased at Centro, where he was Senior Product Manager - Advanced Television. In this role, he demonstrated his capability to navigate complex tech environments and lead cross-functional teams towards successful product launches. Furthermore, his tenure at Conversant saw him evolve from Product Manager - Cross Device to Senior Product Manager - Acquisition, where he leveraged analytics and user feedback to optimize product features and drive customer engagement.

Earlier in his career, Derek laid the groundwork for his expertise as a Product Manager at Cars.com, where he focused on enhancing user experience through data-driven decision-making. He began his career at PrimeSource Building Products, holding various roles including Product Analyst and Junior Product Manager. This comprehensive background has equipped Derek with a unique set of skills and perspectives essential for leading product initiatives.

Achievements and Recognition

Derek's contributions to the field of product management, especially in the technology and marketplace sectors, have not gone unnoticed. His involvement with the KUDO Marketplace project led to significant recognition, including its feature in Time Magazine's prestigious list of Top 100 Inventions of 2021, marking a triumph not just for the product, but also for Derek's vision and leadership.

Derek continues to contribute to the landscape of digital marketplaces, blending his extensive experience with an innovative approach to product management. With a solid educational foundation and a wealth of professional experience, Derek Newman stands out as a recognized leader, shaping the future of marketplace products in an ever-evolving digital world.