Derek Richards is a highly skilled procurement and supply chain professional with extensive experience managing complex and technical areas in the indirect space. He is a graduate of Missouri University of Science and Technology, with degrees in Information Technology and Business Administration and Management. Derek has demonstrated his expertise in software and ERP systems, leveraging their power to transform procurement's focus from tactical to strategic. He has executed projects ranging from greenfield to highly evolved, using market research and in-depth analysis, process improvement, and project management. Currently Procurement Manager - Indirect Materials at Gerdau North America, Derek's career spans many roles at the organization, including as Senior Category Manager - Indirect Materials & Services, Category Manager - Indirect Materials & Services, Category Manager - MRO, and Category Specialist - MRO. Derek is also a former Management Associate - Procurement at Gerdau North America. In his early career, he gained valuable experience at World Wide Technology as a Supply Chain Analyst Intern and as a Logistics Intern. Overall, Derek has a proven track record of leading implementation teams on cost reduction initiatives and his innate knowledge and understanding of procurement systems make him an indispensable asset to any company.