​Derek Friend is an accomplished leader with over 30 years of experience in the ICT and telecommunications sectors, specializing in finance, strategy, and digital transformation. His extensive career spans key global markets, where he has consistently driven growth and operational success. Derek holds an Executive MBA in International Business Finance and Strategy from Stellenbosch University, with further studies at Yale, Harvard, and London School of Financial Trading and Investment.

Certified as an Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and with growing expertise in International Telecommunications and Commercial Contract Law, working toward becoming a telecommunications attorney, integrating his legal acumen with C-level business leadership skills.

Actively engaged in academia, Derek contributes to research papers and serves as a senior member of the IEEE, where he helps shape policies and innovation strategies globally. His career as an independent outsourced management consultant includes extensive expatriate assignments across major international markets.

INTERNATIONAL EXPOSURE
Africa | APAC | Australia | South Pacific | UK | UAE

Derek has held senior roles directing global international commercial and technical teams with U.S multinational companies such as Laser Light, Vodafone, Cisco, and Digicel. He has managed multimillion-dollar P&Ls and led key growth projects. As CEO of 3G Mobile Botswana, he expanded mobile networks across the region, at Schneider Electric, he developed service provider industrial automation energy efficiency strategies for the EMEA region. Derek oversees optical network expansion with industry partners to strengthen telecom infrastructure across Africa.

In addition to his executive roles, Derek is a trusted advisor, guiding management on pre- and post-merger and acquisition strategies and risk management for large-scale projects. His background includes a KPMG Partner, an Associate at Veritux (a Big Four alumni New York consulting firm), and as an independent C(X)O with VNXD, working with founders, collaborating with Liberty and backed by Vista Insurance UK on strategic global startup - fortune 500 advisory and outsourcing projects.

Earlier in his career, Derek worked as an Aero Engineer, developing secure wireless infrastructure at Heathrow Airport with SITA Aero and Orange France. He continues to drive scalable innovation, working closely with both private and public sector clients.

Derek also serves on a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Board, contributing to ICT policy discussions on both national and international levels.