Derek Thurston

Derek Thurston, Director of Foodservice
Cliffs Local Market

Serving as Director of Food Service Operations, Derek, a seasoned QSR professional, has played a key role in enhancing food operations and driving significant growth for a well-established CNY convenience store chain.

Starting early in age within the restaurant industry, Thurston joined the Subway brand in high school. He worked at multiple Subway Sandwich Shops while earning an Associate degree in Restaurant Management from Morrisville State College and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcasting Mass Communication at Oswego State University.

Upon graduation, Thurston joined Subway Development of CNY as a Field Consultant, providing operational and profitability support to over 200 Subway locations in the region. During this time, he also worked with Auntie Anne’s and Taco Del Mar franchises, assisting with store openings and ongoing operational support.

In 2015, Thurston joined a franchise of the growing local company Nice and Easy Grocery Shoppes, which later rebranded as Cliffs Local Market. His deep expertise in the quick service restaurant industry has been instrumental in the growth of Cliffs’ food service operations. Under his leadership, Cliffs launched Recipe Based Inventory, refined its menu offerings, and launched several successful local LTOs. The company is known for its commitment to in-house food preparation and advanced industry practices.

Passionate about his community, Thurston enjoys volunteering his time to coach youth sports. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife and two children: Darren and Alaina.