In 2009, Derek created Ryan Data & Research, a company specializing in research, data, and database management for candidates and campaigns.Prior to starting Ryan Data & Research, Derek played an integral role on the staff at the Republican Party of Texas (RPT). In 1999, while attending The University of Texas, Derek was hired to be a part-time administrative assistant at the RPT. During that first year, he assisted with tracking legislation and planning for campaign schools.After finishing school in 2000, Derek was offered a full-time position and his job responsibilities were expanded to include research and targeting. In 2002, Derek was also given the responsibility of managing the RPT’s master voter vault, a database containing information on all 13 million of Texas’ registered voters.Derek has also worked for Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison in both her Washington, D.C. and Austin offices. His area of focus was commerce, science and transportation legislation, but he also assisted with constituent services.In 2003 and 2007, Derek worked on Governor Rick Perry and Lt. Governor David Dewhurst’s Inaugural Committees. He served as the Volunteer Director and was responsible for recruiting and managing hundreds of volunteers for the various inaugural festivities.Derek is a sixth generation Texan and when not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife (Andrea), golfing, traveling, attending Longhorn sporting events, and rescuing dogs.