Derek is the President of Ricardo Strategic Consulting North America, and joined Ricardo in June of 2011. Mr. Schlonsky is the Key Client Executive for a Major North American Automotive OEM and is also responsible for the N.A. Private Equity business unit which evaluates potential investments, identifies / implements operational strategies for portfolio companies, and manages the exit process to maximize valuation for clients. Prior to Ricardo Strategic Consulting, Derek was a Strategy and Private Equity Consultant with L.E.K. Consulting, specializing in PE deal diligence (financial / commercial) and strategic direction development for various potential investments/portfolio companies. Prior to L.E.K. Consulting, Derek worked with Accenture Strategy and Deloitte, both as a Strategy Consultant, focusing on the Automotive and Industrial Sectors. Mr. Schlonsky has a BBA from the University of Michigan - Ross School of Business and a MBA from the University of Chicago - Booth School of Business, both with High Distinction.