Derek Desranleau is a perfectionist, and we’re pretty sure he’s been that way for a long time. From what we’ve seen, whenever he takes on something new, he nails it.
What sets Derek apart is his sharp ability to observe and assess situations, trends, and people in detail. Combine that with his “what if I…” mindset, and the fact that he actually follows through (fast), and it’s easy to see why he’s built such a successful career. Somehow, he still finds time for side projects and spontaneous adventures with friends.
He’s also one of those people who’s just easy to talk to. His laid-back nature hides a fierce work ethic, and we’re lucky to have the Dereks of the world around Hula reminding us to push ourselves and not just settle for “good enough.”
Q: What do you do?
A: I’m a brand and marketing lead with 13+ years of experience growing high-impact, culture-driven brands across wellness, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. I’ve worked within globally recognized companies that scaled to acquisition and now partner with early-stage startups as they build traction, raise capital, and make a name for themselves.
My sweet spot is where brand meets DTC - creative direction, digital strategy, comms, social, partnerships, and everything in between. I lead with both vision and execution, building layered campaigns, tight storytelling, and teams that can flex from scrappy to scaled.
Q: Do you own your own business? If so, what is it?
A: Yes! I started Coastland Supply this year as a passion project. After working for fashion and lifestyle brands like HUGO BOSS, Intermix, John Hardy, and Lacoste, I wanted to build something that felt closer to home—rooted in product design and inspired by my love of Vermont and New England. For the last couple of years, I’ve split my time between Vermont and the seacoast in New Hampshire, and that rhythm really shaped the brand. Our first release, the Acadia Tote, saw early success and gave me the chance to expand into new categories. The idea has always been small, limited production runs with an emphasis on well-made pieces that tie back to this region. Right now, everything’s available online, but we’re starting to look at a few select stockists for future releases.
Q: What’s a piece of advice you give to other people?
A: A piece of advice I always share: if your job is taking more from you than you’re getting from it, it’s time to move on.
Q: What’s something a mentor or important person has shared that made an impact on your business or career?
A: Early on at John Hardy Jewelry, the team I was on restructured three times in three years—and I always felt small, like I could be cut next. In the middle of that, my boss took me out for a drink and said: “You know, your ability to connect and bring people together is a real strength - you can use that.” Such a simple thing, but it was the first time someone in 'power' reflected a skill back to me in a way that felt like it could be a roadmap. It changed everything and gave me some needed confidence. I leaned into it - and since then, I’ve led more than 80 brand collaborations by embracing that strength.
Q: What role does community play in your career or business?
A: It’s everything. I’d be nothing without the community I’ve built—I call it my personal collective. It bridges the personal and professional. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve just hit it off with someone, the energy is good, and it ends up planting a seed of opportunity.
I think of it like gardening. I’m always planting seeds of ideas with new connections and old, with friends and colleagues. When the timing is right, those seeds sprout. I’ve seen it happen over and over again. The dividends are insane, and the best part is that it all feels super organic. It nurtures real connection, and on a professional level, it creates mutual benefit. Countless times, my personal world has spurred professional opportunities, and vice versa.
Q: What was a pivotal moment while you were building your business or during your career that made you realize you were on the right track? Are there signs people should look out for?
A: A gut feeling, a deep knowing, universal alignment—call it what you want. I’ve felt it a few times. The first was when I decided to leave New York and come back to Vermont. At the time, it felt risky, and I had friends telling me it was a little crazy, but I trusted it. I tapped into a few connections and landed at Tata Harper, which was the perfect fit and turned into five years of incredible personal and professional growth. Some really invaluable opportunities came from that decision.
The second was more recent, when I decided to move on this idea I had for Coastland Supply. It felt like a little magnet in my gut pulling me in the direction I needed to go. It hasn’t steered me wrong yet, and if anything, I lean on my past as the data I need to feel confident moving into the unknown.
My advice: find whatever that thing is for you. Learning to quiet the noise and be present enough to tap into that feeling has been key for me - and know that it will ebb and flow.
Q: How do you handle setbacks or failures without losing motivation?
A: It really depends on the situation. Some things I can handle on my own because I’ve built resilience over time, but there are definitely still moments when I need support. That’s when I tap into my personal collective, like I mentioned before. Sometimes I’ll need to have a sounding board and crowdsource encouragement, motivation, or ideas to help me see a new path forward. And once I feel that spark and know the direction I need to go, I get it done.
It’s twofold, though - I like to be that sounding board for others, too. The support goes both ways, and I think that exchange is what keeps me motivated. ALSO, while hard here in Vermont, getting a great therapist is essential to balance it all :)
Q: What’s a personal habit or mindset shift that significantly improved your business or work life?
A: Strike while the iron is hot. If someone shows interest (esp in the world of partnerships or at a high-growth brand) - you need to move fast. It may not make sense in the moment of how you'd work with them, but take the conversation and brainstorm ideas. It may be a week from then, a month from then, or a year from then... plant that seed (even if it's one you don't know what it is) and it will inevitably grow.
Q: Is there a transformative book, speech, or presentation that you’d recommend to other aspiring business professionals?
A: I wish I could say I was a business book or podcast person, but alas, I am not (though I’m still open to it)! Most of the big lessons so far have come from lived experience, surprise mentors, serendipitous connections, and the community I’ve built around me. For me, it’s less about following a formula and more about being present enough to notice the guidance that shows up in everyday life.
Q: Anything else you'd like to add?
A: Shameless plug to follow along with Coastland Supply! We’re super new and just getting off the ground, but if you love Vermont and New England, my hope is that it becomes a place where you can find a sweet product that makes life feel a little more elevated.
Follow Coastland Supply on Instagram: @COASTLANDSUPPLY
