Derek grew up in Chester, South Dakota. After attending Southwest Minnesota State University for two years and majoring in chemistry, he transferred to Dakota State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance. He’s worked in the financial services industry ever since! He’s also continued his education by attending the ABA National Commercial Lending School in Dallas, Texas. Outside of work, he’s an active volunteer with the United Way, The Banquet, Feeding South Dakota, and Habitat for Humanity.
Q: What is your role at FNB? What does your day-to-day work look like?
My role at FNB for the past six years has been a Business Banker at our Benson Road branch. My day-to-day work varies from being at the Bank or at a customer’s business learning everything I can about them and growing the relationship. The best part of my job is that every day is different, whether it is working on a loan, trying to grow our portfolio, or just sitting and visiting with customers.
Q: What’s the best memory or experience you’ve had at FNB?
I will always remember Russ Robers and Jeremy Keckler coming out to Rapid City for a customer visit, but taking the time to meet with me for my initial interview, as I was living out there at that time. We went out to eat, talked, and got to know each other. It was very informal and relaxed and the way every initial meeting should be.
Q: If you could switch jobs with anyone at the Bank, who would it be and why?
I would switch roles with one of the Ag Bankers so I could wear jeans and not have to wear a suit!
Q: What’s your favorite motto or quote?
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love what you are doing.” – Pelé
“The noblest art is that of making others happy.” ― P. T. Barnum
Q: What is something that people would be surprised to learn about you?
I love all types of music and will listen to any genre, and could sit and listen to it all day. I am the guy that still buys CDs.
Q: If you had $500 to spend at any local business, where or what would you spend it on?
I would spend it at one of the local breweries. I would buy everyone who came in a drink and sit down and have a conversation with every one of them.