Derek has been involved in port operations, and sales and marketing of unitised cargo since the advent of containerisation in 1967. Derek has held Directorships in the Ports of Felixstowe, Malta Freeport, Fujairah, Thamesport and, most recently, DCT Gdansk in Poland. He has acquired a unique knowledge of the many requirements in developing container ports and has developed and retained a wide range of contacts among ship owners, cargo movers and associated bodies.

Derek has advised governments, port authorities and trade bodies o the development of new and revitalised port facilities.