The award recognises the person who has had a successful career in the retail motor industry and has most notably raised the profile and reputation of motor vehicle dealers.

Derik, who has worked tirelessly in the motor industry since the late 70s, is the current Senior National Vice-Chairperson of NADA. His sharp focus on ensuring a full quality service to all clients has resulted in his recognition by various OEMs and other industry bodies over many years.

“In recognition of his tenacious passion, exemplary dedication and extraordinary contribution over many years to improving the trading environment for motor vehicle dealers. Derik’s legacy of inspirational, visionary and diplomatic leadership will be etched in the annuals of the South African Motor Industry for eternity,” reads the citation on his award.

Derik has served on numerous motor industry representative bodies, including Dealer Councils, the RMI as well as four years as chairperson of NADA. He ended a seven-year tenure as CEO of Supergroup Motor Division in 2006, returning to the dealership environment with the purchase of Arnold Chatz Cars. Here he resuscitated an award-winning dealership model, which in the past 15 years has been expanded under his stewardship into a vibrant group of dealerships with the latest additions being Maruleng Auto and Haval Hoedspruit, where Derik is currently Dealer Principal and more importantly a ‘bush life’ enthusiast.