Derek Klaus

Named one of the top 40 minds under 40 in the travel industry by Successful Meetings magazine, Derek recently joined MMGY NJF as a Vice President of PR. He oversees a portfolio of clients from the firm’s Kansas City offices, including Visit California and Visit KC, and assists with new business development and agency promotion. Prior to joining the agency, Derek spent 15 years with Visit KC, most recently as its Director of Communications, where he spearheaded word-of-mouth marketing strategies for the destination through national PR, destination storytelling and social media. Over the years, he has generated marquee coverage for his hometown in AFAR, Travel + Leisure, the Today Show and many other top-tier outlets. 

His work has been recognized with honors and awards from the Public Relations Society of America, HSMAI, U.S. Travel and Bulldog Reporter. Derek is active within the industry, having previously served on boards for PRSA Travel, the Society of American Travel Writers and several organizations in his local community. In his free time, you’ll find him traveling, boating or searching for the perfect set of hammock trees.