Alek Derejian
About Alek Derejian
Alek Derejian serves as the Vice President of New Zealand Operations at Rocket Lab, a position he has held since 2022. He has extensive experience in the aerospace sector, including various roles at Rolls-Royce, where he managed international operations and risk management across multiple regions.
Current Role at Rocket Lab
Alek Derejian serves as the Vice President of New Zealand Operations at Rocket Lab, a position he has held since 2022. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the company's operations within New Zealand, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and driving strategic initiatives. His leadership contributes to Rocket Lab's mission of providing reliable and cost-effective access to space.
Previous Experience at Rolls-Royce
Before joining Rocket Lab, Alek Derejian held multiple roles at Rolls-Royce, where he accumulated significant experience in various capacities. He worked as a Programme Lead for the Trent 1000 Assembly & Test, an Enterprise Risk Manager for Greater China and North-East Asia, and later for the UK HQ. He also served as the International Business Operations Manager and Technical Lead for Outsourcing & Offshoring. His tenure at Rolls-Royce spanned from 2001 to 2018, during which he managed operations across multiple regions and led key projects.
Educational Background
Alek Derejian has a solid educational foundation in engineering. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Avionics Systems Engineering from Coventry University, followed by a Post Graduate Certificate in Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the University of Bristol. He also completed a Six Sigma Green Belt at MoreSteam University and participated in the Management Essentials Programme at Duke Corporate Education. His academic background supports his expertise in engineering and management.
Leadership in Engineering and Risk Management
Throughout his career, Alek Derejian has demonstrated leadership in engineering and risk management. He established two engineering centers in India during his time at Rolls-Royce and set up Enterprise Risk Management across the Asia-Pacific region. His experience includes managing FAA and EASA approved workshops for Gas Turbines and Dynamic Components, highlighting his proficiency in operational management and risk assessment.
Professional Development and Certifications
Alek Derejian has pursued various professional development opportunities to enhance his skills. He achieved a National Award in Risk Management from ASET UK and completed a Six Sigma Green Belt, reflecting his commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. His diverse training complements his extensive experience in engineering and management roles.