Forty Under 40

Derek Dedman, portfolio manager, Watson Di Primio Steel (WDS) Investment Management

June 26, 2018

Editor's Note

Each year, OBJ and the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce choose 40 of the region’s top young entrepreneurs and business executives and recognize them for their professional achievements, expertise and community service.

In these profiles, OBJ highlights some of this year’s recipients – their impressive accomplishments, what drives them and how they like to spend their downtime away from the business world.

See the full list of recipient profiles here and be sure to check out OBJ’s coverage of the 2018 gala here.

Birthplace: Regina

Company: WDS is a boutique investment management firm providing tailored service for private clients.

Education: Master of science (finance), Kansas State University (2015)

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Charitable involvement: The Financial Planning Foundation

Biggest biz achievement: Obtaining my CFA charter and portfolio manager registration.

Biggest obstacle: Having ADHD.

Biggest influence: My parents. I cannot imagine a better possible example in all aspects of life.

Biggest lesson learned: Find balance. What good is success in business if it comes at a cost to those you love most? The little moments in life matter more than we think.

First job: Go-kart track operator

Advice I’d give the younger me: Don’t fear failure.

What’s left to do: Have a beach volleyball court in my backyard and become a partner at my firm.

Favourite pastime: Volleyball

I’m currently reading: Fearless by Eric Blehm

Favourite movie: The Big Short

Favourite song: One Day Soon by the Vocal Few

Favourite local pro sports team: Ottawa Senators

Favourite local summer event: Canada Day

Preferred social media platforms: Facebook, Linkedin

Twitter handle: @derekwilliam03