Deryck R.

Experience

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  The University of the West Indies

  Jun 2014 - Jun 2018

  Student Assistant

  As a Student Assistant at The University of the West Indies (UWI), I played a key role in supporting the Human Resource Management Division (HRMD) and the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS). My responsibilities spanned multiple areas, including performance management, addressing customer queries, and overseeing project and event management and execution. I also contributed to the department’s digital transformation strategy, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. This role sharpened my ability to manage projects, collaborate across teams, and deliver impactful solutions that supported both the day-to-day operations and long-term goals of the institution. Show less

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  Continental Pools

  May 2015 - Sept 2015

  Lifeguard

  Oversaw the daily operations of a community pool in Essex, Maryland, ensuring the safety and well-being of all patrons. This role honed my ability to maintain focus and vigilance in a busy, high-traffic environment while delivering top-tier customer service. I developed strong skills in conflict resolution, emergency response, and fostering a safe, enjoyable experience for swimmers. Through effective communication and quick decision-making, I played a key role in preventing accidents and responding to safety concerns, contributing to a positive and secure pool environment for all. Show less

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  Digicel Group

  Jun 2016 - Oct 2016

  Operations Agent

  Supported the day to day operations of the Digicel Play (Digicel +) - Consumer Sales program. This included dealing with customer queries and sales representative issues such as the installation process, refunds, customer relationship management and issue resolution. This was shown through a significant decrease in backlog (over 40%) as it pertains to customer issue resolution and a decrease in customer processing time as it pertains to refunds and service queries (over 50%).

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  Lasco Distributors Limited

  Sept 2017 - Apr 2019

  Student Brand Ambassador

  Year 1:As the lead coordinator for Lasco Beverages at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, I spearheaded the planning and execution of impactful sales and promotional strategies for key brands such as iCool, iDrade, Konka, and Lasco Food Drink. By focusing on iCool as the flagship product, I drove brand visibility and engagement across university events and student groups, leading to a remarkable 150% increase in brand recognition, product sales, and consumer experiences. My efforts strengthened Lasco’s presence in the university market, creating long-term brand loyalty among students and event partners. (Manufacturer: Lasco Manufacturing Ltd.)Year 2: I expanded my role to collaborate with the marketing team for Jamaica Mountain Peak (Salada Foods) and focused on elevating university-level promotions and trade presence. Working with emerging brands like Mountain Bliss 876, I developed strategies to boost consumer awareness among young adults, resulting in a 100% increase in brand engagement and market penetration within this key demographic. These efforts not only enhanced brand perception but also created lasting relationships between the brand and the university community. (Manufacturer: Salada Foods Jamaica Ltd.)This role provided hands-on experience in brand development, consumer behavior analysis, and strategic marketing in dynamic, youth-centric environments. Show less

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  The Ashe Company

  Jul 2018 - Sept 2018

  Integrated Marketing Communications Team Lead (Actg.)

  Performing Arts Division: Overall responsibility for creating a lasting impression among consumers and improving product sales and market share. Monitored market trends and advertising activities. Identified new sales leads, pitched products and services to prospective clients and maintained fruitful relationships with existing customers. Started the process of activating the vision of "the Ashe University" through initiating conversations with the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean.Programme Management: Worked and led the Integrated Marketing & Communication team to increase programme engagement through both online and offline channels. This was seen in an over 250% increase in engagement with online content via the various social media channels over the three-month period and a 700% increase in individual online conversations (message dissemination) on social media platforms over a six-month period. Social events were also held with further proposals being made to increase offline engagement.Post: Monitoring & Evaluation Officer Show less

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  The University of the West Indies

  Feb 2019 - May 2019

  Project Assistant - Academic Support Unit (ASU)

  This role involved coordinating the project's day-to-day operations, improving access and efficiency through digitization, and ensuring that the goal of facilitating student academic success was met at all times through various means. This was seen in an over 30% decrease in student wait time for services through the digitalization of the registration process. Student contact time was reduced to less than one week, with assignments to the relevant tutors being made efficiently. Payment time for tutors decreased to close to the average two-week period, with student and tutor reviews and reports being sent on time, meeting the relevant departmental deadlines. Show less

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  Broad Haven Associates

  Mar 2019 - Feb 2020

  Marketing/Social Media Analyst

  Worked as a Consultant with the Broad Haven Associates team. My responsibilities included working with various clients (spanning mainly the cultural and creative industries), improving their brand both online and offline which led to greater presence and in turn affected customer perception and revenue.

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  The Gleaner Company (Media) Limited

  May 2019 - Feb 2021

  During my time as Digital Content Coordinator, I played a key role in the planning, creation, and management of branded content across digital platforms, aligning with the company’s digital agenda to drive customer engagement and business growth.Key achievements include:• Collaborated on The Gleaner’s Jamaica Together Initiative, successfully integrating content across online, print, and TV platforms, which increased cross-platform engagement by over 10%. • Launched and promoted the Gleaner’s Opinion and Lifestyle websites (Viewpointsja.com & Flairja.com), driving a monthly audience growth of over 15% through strategic content analysis and targeted campaigns.• Led the International Women’s Day Project, coordinating the feature of 24 influential Jamaican women across print, online, and radio. The project not only raised awareness but also secured sponsorship funding.• Monetized social media platforms (The Jamaica Gleaner and The Jamaica Star), which increased online advertising revenue by over 10%.• Partnered with internal and external teams to execute various digital initiatives, resulting in improved brand visibility and stronger audience retention.• Managed and updated The Gleaner Company (Media) Ltd’s LinkedIn page, enhancing the company’s professional online presence and engagement.• Supported the production of Sounds of the Past Podcast, contributing to the preservation of Jamaican history through storytelling.• Coordinated Gleaner Top Stories Preview, ensuring timely and engaging content delivery for top news stories.• Contributed to the successful rollout of Gleaner Premium, a key subscription product offering.Through these initiatives, I helped drive growth and monetization for The Gleaner’s digital platforms while elevating the company’s presence across various media. Show less

  • Digital Content Coordinator

    Sept 2019 - Feb 2021

  • Assistant Marketing Officer - Events & Trade

    May 2019 - Aug 2019
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  The University of the West Indies

  Aug 2019 - Oct 2021

  Resident Advisor (RA)

  During my tenure as a Resident Advisor, I was responsible for creating and executing initiatives designed to support the holistic development of over 150 residents, fostering both personal growth and academic success.• Civic Engagement & Leadership Development: Developed leadership programs that empowered 50+ residents to actively participate in campus and civic life, leading to increased student involvement in university and community initiatives.• Academic Support Programme: Led sessions aimed at improving academic performance, helping students understand their learning styles, improve time management, and access tutor support by semester's end.• Student Welfare & Mentorship Initiatives: Organized welfare drives and mentorship programs, directly benefiting over 50 students and enhancing their overall wellbeing.• Performing Arts & Outreach Activities: Coordinated cultural events, including performing arts showcases, boosting student engagement and helping many discover and pursue their talents.**COVID-19 Adaptation:**• Digital Transformation: Led the shift to online programming, collaborating with students to create and execute virtual events like a gospel concert, quiz competitions, and forums. These events engaged 200+ students, maintaining community engagement during lockdowns.• Sustained Student Engagement: Kept strong relationships with residents through regular virtual check-ins and phone conversations, offering emotional and mental support during a challenging academic year.• Innovation in Program Delivery: Advised and supervised "Digital Block Weeks," offering continuous learning and entertainment, resulting in a 10% increase in participation despite the shift to a virtual format.Over two years, I built a supportive and inclusive community, promoting student leadership, academic growth, and personal development, contributing to a connected and resilient residential community despite the challenges of COVID-19. Show less

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  YaaD TALE Creative

  Oct 2020 - now

  Lead Taleteller (Consultant)
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  The Jamaica Observer

  May 2021 - Jul 2021

  Digital Media Specialist

  Worked with the Online team in executing the Digital agenda of the Jamaica Observer Limited. This included the analysis of content, proofreading/editing and social media management with the aim of increasing engagement on the various digital platforms, thereby increasing online advertising revenue.

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  STEAMHouse

  Aug 2023 - Jan 2025

  Online Instructor

  At STEAMHouse, I contribute to an education hub dedicated to preparing future-ready Jamaicans for the workforce by designing and delivering innovative curricula that foster inquiry-based learning and creative problem-solving. My role involves:• Curriculum Development: I collaborate with fellow team members to design a comprehensive, term-long immersive experience that engages learners in hands-on STEAM activities. This includes reviewing and refining technical modules, ensuring alignment with educational standards and learner needs.• Instructional Design: Create instructional materials and step-by-step guides for a diverse range of group sizes (2-30 learners), facilitating effective online instruction that promotes active participation and skill acquisition in areas like electronics and programming.• Community Engagement: Actively promoted STEAM programs through social media and local community outreach, resulting in a greater awareness of programs compared to previous terms.• Feedback and Improvement: Conducted end-of-course surveys to gather learner feedback, contributing to continuous improvement in course delivery and instructional strategies.I aim to maintain a fun yet disciplined learning environment, enabling students to explore and innovate while developing essential technology skills. As an ambassador of STEAM learning, I am passionate about nurturing the next generation of thinkers and creators. Show less