Derek McCracken

Derek began his career in Mechanical Engineering before quickly progressing to a senior management role in the medical device industry in his 20s. He then spent 8 years as General Manager of a successful specialist manufacturing business before setting up his own business as an Interim Manager and Non Executive Director.

This specialist work has taken him into a variety of organisations on business troubleshooting and senior management assignments, often involving change and improvement initatives. The Interim management assignments enabled Derek to gain considerable experience influencing at board level, often operating as a shadow director. He has worked in the private and public sectors and has had specific functional experience in Medical, Electronics, packaging, Engineering, Construction and service. His experience combines leadership, operational management and consulting for national and multi-nationals, business start-ups and working with various government bodies.

Derek returned to study part-time in his late 30s and graduated with a BA(Hons)Degree in Business and an Masters Degree in Business Improvement, both within a 5 year period. He has also completed The Experienced Managers Programme at the Irish Management Institute in Dublin and The Role of the Non-Executive Director course at the Institute of Directors in London.

Outside work Derek has been significantly involved in Christian based community work for almost 20 years including 10 years as a volunteer youth pastor. He has also worked with a number of charitable trusts, using his experience and influence to help people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Derek has a strong interest in missions both at home and overseas and has taken part in a school building project in Africa.

Recognising the need for true and authentic leadership in business and the church he formed Generation Leader in 2004, with the aim of identifying, supporting, encouraging, inspiring and motivating the next generation of leaders.

Derek is married to Hazel with two sons, and his other interests include extensive travel and sports, particularly rugby.


Hazel McCracken

Hazel began her career by training as a Registered Nurse in the City Hospital in Belfast. She went on to work in a Children's medical ward for several years.

After this Hazel trained and worked as a Health Visitor for 12 years. She then took a career break to spend a number of years concentrating on family before purchasing a retail business and trading it with her Husband.

In recent years Hazel has developed a strong interest in 'voice and image', undertaking training in Dublin with a highly reputable coach. Hazel now takes seminars and provides one-to-one coaching in this important area.

Alongside Generation Leader, she continues to be involved in the retail sector.

Hazel has been involved in Christian work for many years with particular involvement in prayer ministry.

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