Derek Mernagh FCA is originally from Wexford and now lives in San Francisco where he arrived via stints living and working in Germany and Australia.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I'm originally from Enniscorthy, County Wexford and now I live in San Francisco.
Tell us why you chose to become a Chartered Accountant and how you got here?
It seemed like a good idea at the time! That was back when I was in my final year of college at Trinity College Dublin where there were the “milk rounds” that came by. I quickly realised that working for one of the Big 4 accounting firms would be a great way to start my career.
What do you value most about your membership of the profession and how do you think those benefits can be used to support the economy and society?
It has opened up so many doors for me. I’ve had the chance to work in four countries (Ireland, Australia, Germany, and now the USA). I’ve found accountants are more valued than ever, and it’s only getting stronger. Accountants have a unique perspective within companies, and there are few roles that need to interact across functions the way we do.
You are living in San Francisco; can you tell us a bit what life is like there for you professionally and personally.
It’s a great place to live. The thing I appreciate most is the weather. You can count on settled weather most of the year and be outside. And I’ve really gotten into the Californian wines. Having Napa valley nearby is so handy and the Cabernets are my personal favourite. Work opportunity is as good here for accountants as anywhere in the world. It’s fast paced and things change quickly so it’s not for the faint hearted. But the rewards when it works out (like taking a company public) can make it worth the extra effort.
Where is the first place you will go abroad now that we can travel again?
Other than getting back to Ireland more often, I’d like to explore more of Mexico since it’s so close by, and I haven’t had a chance to visit too many places there. Then Central America after that.
And finally, Derek, if you weren’t an accountant, what do you think you would you be/have been?
I’ve always been really into all things aviation so I would like to have been a pilot on long haul routes where I could travel and visit cities. If I got tired of the travel then I’d be happy serving (and tasting) wine.
Derek Mernagh is VP Corporate Controller at
Motive, San Francisco.
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