Inspired by the example of his father, a plasterer who always emphasized the importance of “leaving every situation better than you found it,” Derek knew that there must be a way to connect his lifelong people-first philosophy with effective financial planning. In 2003 he joined forces with a couple of like-minded friends, and they set out to start a company that would provide independent retirement plans through strategies that were rooted in principles of cooperation, service, and faith.

Before he knew it, SHP Financial was a reality. As the company continues to grow, Derek remains deeply committed to the ideals of his father. “I always try to have a servant’s heart,” he says. To Derek, putting the reality of his client’s lives first is not merely an extra feature—it’s the only way he knows how to do business. “If you take care of the small things,” he says, “the bigger things will work themselves out. Sending that extra thank you card, making that extra phone call, doing the little things right adds up to huge success and ultimately comes down to showing people how much you care about them. We make sure that people feel like we saw them and cared about their life.”

SHP’s trademarked process, the SHP Retirement Road Map®, is a tried-and-true guide through the many challenges of income planning, investment management, tax optimization planning, health and long-term care planning, and estate planning.

A budding golfer and lifelong Patriot’s fan, Derek lives in Lakeville, Massachusetts with his wife and two sons. Whether in the office or at home, he credits his Christian faith with granting him the strength that helps him be the best person he can be every single day. He knows how important it is to try new things, to roll with the punches, and to be confident while always staying humble. “My proudest professional achievement,” he says, “is having a true full-planning practice with an amazing team where everybody cares about each other and our clients.”