Derek has more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and joined our firm in 2015. Throughout his career, he has advised high-net-worth individuals, foundations, endowments, and retirement plans on a broad list of topics including asset allocation, investment policy design, portfolio management, investment manager due diligence and financial planning.
As an integral member of the leadership team, Derek serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Schneider Downs Wealth Management Advisors. Derek is also a Shareholder at Schneider Downs & Co., Inc. and a member of the Operating Committee, contributing to the growth and integration of SDWMA with the greater firm. Committed to seeking positive growth in all of his relationships, Derek is not only devoted to his clients, but also diligently mentors and guides the advisors and staff of SDWMA.
Derek resides in Wexford, PA with his wife, Barbara, and his three children, Dylan, Ava, and Ethan. He enjoys playing golf, watching movies, and spending time with his family and their two dogs, Lucy and Scout.
Member – Financial Planning Association
Member – CFA Society of Pittsburgh
Do you have a hobby/personal passion?
I’ve always enjoyed playing and watching most sports. As I get older, I’m doing a lot more watching than playing.
What was the best advice you’ve ever received?
Treat people the way that you want to be treated.
Who is your role model?
My mother and father.
What was your childhood dream?
To play professional baseball. I didn’t get very close on that one.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your college self?
Be sure that you appreciate and enjoy the journey along the way.
People would be surprised to know that I…
started off as a chemical engineering major in college. Luckily, I moved over to business in my junior year. That was a better fit.
What is the best or most interesting thing about your career?
My industry is always changing and it’s great for someone like me that wants to continue to learn and grow professionally. It’s also very rewarding to connect with my clients on a very personal level as I help them reach their long-term goals.
What was your first job?
Paperboy for The Pittsburgh Press when I was 12 years old. Those were the days when we had a morning and afternoon newspaper in Pittsburgh.
When you have an hour of free time, what do you like to do?
Hang out with my wife and our three kids (and our dog – Scout).
Do you have advice for young professionals?
Try and turn any of the frustrations that you come across in your career into opportunities. It is amazing the change that occurs in you when you look at how you can improve situations rather than complain about them.
Big Problem: A Family-owned Business Needing Tax Advice.
Big Thinking: $1.4 Million In Eligible Deductions.
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Schneider Downs is a Top 60 independent Certified Public Accounting (CPA) firm providing accounting, tax, audit and business advisory services to public and private companies, not-for-profit organizations and global companies. We also offer Internal Audit; Technology Consulting; Software Solutions; Personal Financial Services; Retirement Plan Solutions and Corporate Finance Services. Schneider Downs is the 13th largest accounting firm in the Mid-Atlantic region and serves individuals and companies in Pennsylvania (PA), Ohio (OH), West Virginia (WV), New York (NY), Maryland (MD), and additional states in the United States with offices in Pittsburgh, PA, Columbus, OH, and McLean, VA.
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