Derek obtained his accounting designation and Bachelor of Commerce degree through night classes while working full time. Derek has over 18 years of experience in the accounting and auditing fields, and is currently employed with the British Columbia Provincial Government as a Manager of Strategic Planning. In this role Derek is involved in developing the business plan for his office, ensuring alignment with the Government's overall strategies and creating and developing an accountability framework and performance reporting processes. In addition to teaching at Royal Roads University, Derek has experience lecturing with the Certified General Accountants Association of British Columbia and the University of Victoria.

In the financial community, Derek has served several years as a director for the Southern Vancouver Island Chapter of the CGA Association, is a member of the Financial Management Institute, and recently became the PAC Treasurer for his daughter’s school. Derek’s social community activities include volunteering with St. John Ambulance, Big Brothers and Sisters and Junior Achievement.
 
Derek was born in Montreal and moved to Victoria in 1992. In his spare time, Derek enjoys playing with his two young daughters, participating in sports and enjoying the great outdoors.