Dallas, Texas, United States, December 2024 – Ryan, a leading global tax services and software provider, is pleased to announce that Derek Thomas has joined the Firm as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Thomas brings more than two decades of leadership experience within varied business-to-business (B2B) organizations where he led the reconceptualization of marketing strategy, demand generation, and product disciplines at a global level.
“Derek’s immense marketing and technology expertise will be integral to driving Ryan’s business forward with a keen focus on innovation and the Firm’s global growth,” said Ginny Kissling, Global President and Chief Operating Officer. “We are pleased to welcome such an accomplished leader to the Firm, with great anticipation for the business and market results his strategic vision will bring.”
Thomas previously served as Senior Vice President (SVP), Global Marketing and Business Development at Blue Yonder, where he built a high-performance, data-driven marketing organization while leading the company from a product-led to audience-led approach. As a trained engineer with prior technical and marketing leadership roles at Procter & Gamble and Emerson Electric, Thomas offers a unique perspective on conventional marketing methods to create solutions that have the strongest impact for attracting prospective clients.
At Ryan, Thomas will serve as a member of the executive leadership team with oversight of the development, implementation, and execution of the Firm’s marketing and branding strategy, creative, global communications, and digital marketing.
“I am thrilled to join Ryan as Chief Marketing Officer with an opportunity to contribute to the Firm’s bold vision for the future,” said Derek Thomas. “I’m eager to build on the company’s strong foundation by further elevating the brand, redefining the digital experience, and amplifying Ryan’s voice in the market. Together, we will continue shaping a category-defining presence and delivering meaningful impact for our clients globally.”
Thomas holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Olin School of Business, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University. He will be based in Dallas, Texas, and will report to Global President and COO Ginny Kissling.
About Ryan:
Ryan is the world’s largest firm dedicated exclusively to business taxes, providing integrated federal, state, local, and international tax services. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Ryan serves over 30,000 clients globally, including many Global 5000 companies. Known for its award-winning commitment to client service and innovative work environment, Ryan continues to set benchmarks in tax services and technology.
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