Derek is the Managing Director of RBY Projects (est. 2010) and Manaji Projects (est. 2018) and the Chairperson of AEMEE (since 2010). Derek's industry experience began in 2004 as a founding director of multi-award-winning company Northern Project Contracting (NPC) which was formed to capitalise on the opportunities offered to Waanyi Traditional Owners within the MMG Century Mine. Derek has successfully managed contracting companies in the resource sector since and has a particular interest in providing opportunities to the Indigenous and local communities in which he operates. Derek and the RBY Group have been formally recognised for outstanding contributions to industry and Indigenous engagement as the recipient of multiple prestigious awards and accolades. Derek is from Stradbroke Island, Minjerribah, and is also connected to the Gubbi Gubbi and Butchulla people of the Gympie region and K'Gari.