Derek is from Stradbroke Island, Minjerribah and is also connected to the Gubbi Gubbi and Butchulla people of the Gympie region in K’Gari.
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 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 RBY Group have been formally recognised for outstanding contribution to industry and Indigenous engagement as the recipient of multiple prestigious awards and accolades.