Derek is currently the Chief Executive of HQ Theatres.   Prior to his current role, Derek was Chief Executive of the Churchill Theatre, Bromley, Director of the Grand Opera House, Belfast, Artistic Director of the York Theatre Royal, Associate Director at Birmingham Rep and Director of the Midlands Arts Centre.   He is a director of the Dance Consortium.

Derek served as the President of the TMA from 2004 until 2010.  Prior to being elected President, Derek was a member of the TMA Council of Management for six years.