Derek Carkner

Background

About Derek Carkner

First of all, your mom will love me. I'm THAT guy! I have also helped to shape successful events and festivals in Toronto for over twenty years. My project management excellence is achieved with an enterprising attitude and an innate ability to please multiple stakeholders. I have consistently been recognized for my leadership abilities through awards and scholarships. Outside-the-box thinking enables me to consistently exceed goals while an extensive background in Hospitality offers award-winning customer service. My diverse background in the arts and entertainment industry presents a unique personality with a talent for analysis who can thrive under pressure. Moreover, a passion for words reveals itself-both in creative development and in everyday conversation among co-workers. Career highlights include restructuring the roles of the Programming Coordinators and Theatre Representatives at the Toronto International Film Festival to maximize productivity/performance and eliminate redundancy. Coupled with adjusting Red Carpet and Green Room procedures at Gala screenings, I was able to improve start times of scheduled films, resulting in lowered guest frustration and a decreased overtime to IATSE by 50%. Most recently, I was scouting for and representing a select roster of clients for Meridian Artists. We revolutionized what representation means between actor/agent while blazing a new path in the realm of media and entertainment. Following a move to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, I have been freelancing as a writer and photographer for various local newspapers and magazines. I have also been certified as a real estate agent and am working with the city’s best team of realtors to help you find your new home. For more of my story, don't hesitate to get in touch. And say hi to your mom for me. Specialties: Musical Direction, Event Management, Project Management, Logistics, Customer Service, Grant Writing, Negotiating, Budgets, Research, Writing, Public Speaking, Social Media.