Derek Hubbard

Professional Summary

Derek Hubbard is an experienced marketing and public relations professional with a strong focus on brand partnerships, entertainment PR, and social media strategy. As the Manager of Brand Partnerships & Entertainment PR & Social Media at Southwest Airlines, he plays a crucial role in elevating the company's brand presence and forging strategic collaborations within the industry.

Experience Summary

Current Role

In his current position at Southwest Airlines, Derek is responsible for managing high-profile brand partnerships, leading entertainment-focused public relations efforts, and developing innovative social media campaigns. He works closely with cross-functional teams to create engaging content and amplify the airline's presence across various platforms. Through his strategic initiatives, Derek has helped strengthen Southwest's reputation as a customer-centric brand and drive meaningful connections with its target audience.

Career Progression

Prior to his current role, Derek served as the Senior Specialist on the Public Relations team at Southwest Airlines, where he honed his skills in media relations, crisis communication, and event management. He also held the position of Specialist on the Social Business team, where he leveraged his expertise in social media marketing and content creation to enhance the company's digital presence.

Before joining Southwest Airlines, Derek gained valuable experience in the entertainment industry, serving as the Communications & Public Relations Manager at DHD Films and the Co-Executive Producer/On-Camera Correspondent at Inside Entertainment TV. Additionally, he held the role of Host/Moderator for the Willis M. Tate Distinguished Lecture Series at Southern Methodist University, demonstrating his versatility and strong communication skills.

Academic Background

Derek holds a Bachelor's degree from Southern Methodist University, where he honed his skills in strategic communication, media relations, and public speaking.

Areas of Expertise

• Brand partnership development and activation

• Entertainment-focused public relations and media relations

• Social media strategy and content creation

• Event management and experiential marketing

• Crisis communication and reputation management

• Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Derek has successfully executed high-profile brand partnerships, securing lucrative deals and generating significant media exposure for Southwest Airlines. His innovative social media campaigns have consistently driven engagement and positive sentiment among the airline's customer base. Additionally, his leadership in public relations initiatives has helped maintain the company's reputation during challenging times, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in the face of evolving industry dynamics.

Conclusion

With his extensive experience in marketing, public relations, and social media, Derek Hubbard is a valuable asset to Southwest Airlines. His strategic mindset, creative problem-solving abilities, and strong industry relationships make him a key contributor to the company's ongoing success. As he continues to evolve his career, Derek is well-positioned to drive impactful initiatives and contribute to the growth and reputation of the brands he represents.