Mark Derks
About Mark Derks
Mark Derks serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at BlueGrace Logistics and is an adjunct professor at the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota. He has extensive experience in marketing, having held various leadership roles at C.H. Robinson, Zipline, and Words At Work, and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of marketers.
Current Role at BlueGrace Logistics
Mark Derks serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at BlueGrace Logistics, a position he has held since 2021. Based in Riverview, Florida, he focuses on developing and implementing marketing strategies that enhance the company's visibility and growth. His role involves overseeing marketing initiatives and ensuring alignment with the company's overall objectives.
Previous Experience at C.H. Robinson
Mark Derks worked at C.H. Robinson in various marketing roles. He served as the Director of Carrier Marketing from 2003 to 2008 for five years, followed by a position as Director of Global Marketing from 2008 to 2017 for nine years. His tenure at C.H. Robinson contributed to his extensive experience in the logistics and transportation industry.
Advisory Role at Zipline
From 2020 to 2023, Mark Derks acted as an Advisor at Zipline, located in the San Francisco Bay Area. In this role, he provided strategic insights and guidance to enhance the company's marketing efforts, leveraging his extensive background in the field.
Teaching at Hubbard School of Journalism
Mark Derks has been an Adjunct Professor at the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota since 2019. He teaches courses that focus on marketing principles, aiming to inspire and educate the next generation of marketers in the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area.
Educational Background
Mark Derks earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Writing from the University of Minnesota, where he studied from 1987 to 1992. His educational background has equipped him with strong communication skills, which he applies in his marketing career.
Board Membership at The Brand Lab
Mark Derks served on the board of directors for The Brand Lab, an organization dedicated to introducing high school and college students from diverse backgrounds to marketing careers. His involvement reflects his commitment to mentoring young adults and fostering diversity in the marketing field.