Derek Sullivan

Creative Director

Derek Sullivan, a native Austinite and career graphic designer, heads up the design department for Community Impact Newspaper. Derek prides himself in being an “average Joe,” and he uses that perspective to lead CI’s creative efforts to make sure graphics make sense to the average reader. In today’s fast-paced world, visual communication is more important than ever. Whether browsing articles or advertisements, Derek believes design plays a very important role in capturing a person’s attention. The focus on high-quality design of infographics, charts and maps helps to ensure that every issue of the newspaper is reader-friendly and useful. With the CI mission in mind, Derek is committed to helping local businesses thrive by ensuring ad design is second to none.

Under Derek’s leadership, the design department has received dozens of national awards for advertising, editorial layout and website design. As a team member since 2007, he has helped lead the company through many innovations and improvements to processes and products. Derek attributes his and much of the company’s success to the hard work of his creative and talented design team.

When he’s not behind his desk focused on design …

Derek can be found bass fishing with his wife, MaLea, or riding his dirtbike.

Derek’s take on education …

He has an associate degree in visual communication from Austin Community College. “It just goes to show that you don’t need a huge student loan payment to get a great job,” he said.

The best advice he’d give to a young designer is ….

“The portfolio is everything. It shows the world that you know what good design is, and you can do it!”