"The road to success is paved with mistakes well handled."

— Danny Meyer, author of Setting the Table

I'm Derek Hillman, and my journey through the world of hospitality and technology has been driven by a love for food, beverage, and innovative solutions.

Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I have devoted over 20 years to the hospitality industry, starting as a dishwasher, to server and bartender and then to higher managerial positions including Bar Manager, General Manager, and Director of Operations, culminating as a Director of Technology. My career has spanned esteemed fine dining locales like Polo Grill and Prhyme: Downtown Steakhouse, as well as vibrant casual spots like BBD2 and El Guapo's.

Beyond my practical experience, I am a certified Sommelier, having earned my credentials in Burbank, CA, in 2018. My expertise in beverages extends to managing a dynamic beer program at Torero Bar & Kitchen, featuring over 40 taps and 100 different beers. A significant chapter of my experience was shaped at Hodges Bend, a renowned craft cocktail bar where I honed my skills behind the bar. 

Over the past twenty-four years, I've developed a strong foundation in website design and coding, which I've applied in various projects including an extensive five-year stint doing graphic design and print layout for Golf Oklahoma magazine. My technological acumen extends deeply into restaurant technologies, where I have a proven track record in implementing and managing advanced POS systems, scheduling software, and inventory management solutions, ensuring seamless integration and operation within the demanding environments of modern eateries.

As I progressed into operational roles within the restaurant industry, I recognized a unique opportunity to merge my twin passions for hospitality and technology. Today's restaurant operations are complex, requiring sophisticated technological solutions from POS systems to inventory, scheduling, and beyond. I am dedicated to guiding restaurant owners and operators in harnessing these technologies to enhance efficiency, make informed decisions, and ultimately drive profitability.

My mission is straightforward: to equip restaurant operators with the tools they need to operate more smartly and efficiently. With the right technology and data, restaurant owners can free themselves from the minutiae of administrative tasks to focus on leading their teams and engaging with their guests.

Outside of my professional life, I'm engaged and marrying the love of my life this year. I’m a proud father to a spirited step-son who is just starting out in little league baseball. Our family also includes Asteria, a border collie named after a Greek Titaness, and Io, a cat named after one of Jupiter’s moons. Celebrating three years of sobriety, I'm particularly enthusiastic about the surge in non-alcoholic offerings of beer, wine, and spirits, which aligns perfectly with my professional and personal appreciation for culinary and beverage innovations. When not immersed in technology or hospitality, I cherish my time playing disc golf and dreaming of revisiting Spain to walk the Camino de Santiago. At home, I enjoy improving my residence and tending to my garden and lawn.

Favorite Color: Green
Favorite Food: Spaghetti & Meatballs
Favorite Musician: Cake
Favorite Disc Golf Disc: Prodigy F7
Favorite Movie: Big Trouble in Little China

Let us prove it.

During our initial consultation, we'll explore your current operations, the systems you have in place, and the technologies you're interested in adopting. We'll also discuss your aspirations for the future and outline a strategic plan to achieve your objectives. This ensures that we are perfectly aligned with your vision and can tailor a solution that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.