Derek Jackson

Derek Jackson is a cultural strategist, entrepreneur, and brand architect with more than 20 years of experience at the intersection of entertainment, marketing, and consumer culture.

Known for recognizing shifts in culture before they become market trends, Jackson has built a career turning talent, influence, and audience trust into high-value businesses and brand partnerships.

Early in his career, Jackson discovered The Roots and helped secure the group’s first record deal. He later managed producer and songwriter Scott Storch, helping guide his rise into one of the most successful producers of the 2000s.

Jackson went on to work across talent management, technology, and brand strategy, including serving as an executive consultant to digital media company Urban Box Office, where he contributed to the company’s development and a $16 million private-equity raise.

In 2011, Jackson co-founded GLU Agency, creating culturally driven partnerships between global brands and influential talent. His work included brokering Lil Wayne’s landmark “DEWeezy” partnership with Mountain Dew and Nicki Minaj’s multimillion-dollar deal with Pepsi.

Across music, media, and marketing, Jackson’s advantage has remained consistent: identifying where culture is creating demand—and building the strategy, partnerships, and businesses positioned to capture it.