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Derrick Ho
Chief Financial Officer at PUSH
Professional Background
Derrick Ho is a seasoned professional in the private equity investment realm, with a specialized focus on buyouts in the Canadian lower middle market. Since embarking on his career, Derrick has been instrumental in facilitating investments in various infrastructure services businesses, including sectors like underground utility services, sewer repairs, pipeline repairs, power construction and maintenance, airport services, and rail services. His profound expertise in these industries mirrored by a longstanding commitment to fostering economic growth positions him as a valuable asset in the field.
Currently, Derrick is associated with Market Square Equity Partners, where he has played a pivotal role since 2013. During this period, he has been directly involved in leading the buyouts of several successful companies, including Ontario Excavac Inc., D.M. Robichaud Associates Ltd., and Clean Water Works Inc. His strategic foresight and diligent work ethic have led these organizations to flourish, marking significant growth within their respective markets.
Derrick’s influence doesn’t stop at investment alone; he actively contributes to the boards of several private companies. As a board director or observer, his insights have been invaluable to companies such as Ontario Excavac Inc., D.M. Robichaud Associates Ltd., Clean Water Works Inc., Active Exhaust Corp., Party Packagers Inc., and Oncorp Direct Inc. His board involvement is a testament to his leadership capabilities and profound understanding of business dynamics in the private equity landscape.
Education and Achievements
Derrick’s educational background is as impressive as his career trajectory. He studied at the prestigious University of Waterloo, where he earned both a Master of Accounting with a focus on Accounting and Finance and a Bachelor of Mathematics, also centered in Accounting and Finance. His firm foundation in finance and accounting has undoubtedly equipped him with the essential skills required to navigate the complexities of private equity successfully.
Further enhancing his financial acumen, Derrick pursued professional certifications that underscore his commitment to excellence in his field. He studied for the CFA designation at the CFA Institute, showing his dedication to high standards in investment management. Additionally, he completed his Chartered Accountant training at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario, reinforcing his expertise in financial reporting and business strategy.
Professional Leadership Roles
Derrick has held various prestigious positions throughout his career that have allowed him to cultivate a wealth of experience in financial leadership. He served as the Chief Financial Officer at PUSH, where he displayed remarkable expertise in financial management and strategic oversight. His prior experiences include roles as Managing Partner at Market Square Equity Partners and Senior Vice President of Investments at Covington Capital Corporation. In these roles, Derrick honed his skills in investment strategy and capital allocation, becoming a recognized figure in the private equity community.
Before establishing himself in private equity, Derrick was a Director at VenGrowth Private Equity Partners (VG Partners), where he expanded his knowledge of venture capital dynamics. His career began at Wolseley as a Mergers & Acquisitions Analyst, where he significantly contributed to the acquisition processes, cementing a solid foundation for his future endeavors. Additionally, he served as a Senior Associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers, gaining invaluable insights into auditing and consultancy that would serve beneficially in his later roles.
Derrick’s impressive career and substantial achievements reflect his unwavering dedication and expertise in the field of private equity investment. His strategic vision and hands-on approach have allowed him to thrive in competitive environments, continually seeking innovative solutions for growth and development in the infrastructure services sector.
Achievements
- Led successful buyouts of multiple companies in the Canadian lower middle market.
- Informed board director and observer across several private companies, influencing their governance and strategic direction.
- Successfully transitioned from senior roles in prominent financial institutions to establishing a successful career in private equity investment, demonstrating adaptability and leadership skills.
- Contributed to economic growth in various infrastructure sectors through thoughtful investments and strategic oversight.
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