Building companies that outlast their founders.
For more than twenty-five years, Derek Bullard has founded, scaled, and stewarded mission-driven businesses — including two companies recognized on the Inc. 500 list of America's fastest-growing private companies — while serving the boards and communities that shaped them.
The companies worth building are the ones that still serve people well after the founder has moved on. Everything else is just momentum.
Where experience compounds
Six disciplines, refined across a career of founding, operating, and governing companies.
Entrepreneurship
Founding and scaling mission-driven companies — twice to the Inc. 500.
Investing
Investing in founder-led businesses, healthcare services, franchises, and private companies where operating experience, sound judgment, and strong leadership can create meaningful value.
Mergers & Acquisitions
Buy-side discipline, integration, and value creation through cycles.
Corporate Governance
Board leadership, succession, and the systems that outlast founders.
Community Impact
Philanthropy and service to children and families in need.
Thought Leadership
Speaking and writing on leadership, entrepreneurship, healthcare, investing, governance, philanthropy, and organizational growth.
Featured media coverage, essays, and insights will appear here.
Service is the through-line
Through nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, volunteerism, board service, and community engagement, Derek has worked to strengthen organizations and create meaningful impact for families and communities. His commitment to service extends beyond business and reflects a lifelong belief that strong organizations can improve lives and strengthen the communities they serve.
- Habitat for Humanity of Greater ChattanoogaBoard Chair
- In Concert for Cancer
- Communities in Schools
- YBM Leadership Alliance
- and others
Let's discuss what you're building.
Open to board service, strategic investments, acquisition conversations, and select speaking engagements.