Why me

What sets me apart?

If you are after a typical corporate approach, I’m not your man.

I choose not to follow the corporate rulebook, believing that the most unexpected paths often lead to the most rewarding outcomes. Although my latest workshop, ‘The Curiosity Restaurant,’ may seem unconventional in a professional environment, it has proven to be a valuable opportunity for individuals to grow both personally and professionally.  Responses range from “serious mental gymnastics” to “I haven’t really thought about this before,” and even “profound.”


Even though I don’t take myself too seriously, I take my commitments seriously. Above all, I believe true friends are those who give you the advice you need, even when it’s not what you want to hear. While this approach may not always make me popular, I see it as my responsibility to speak honestly and directly.

I don’t pretend to have all the answers, nor do I impose my views. Instead, I take pride in working with individuals and teams to create practical, effective solutions that lead to better outcomes not only at work but at home as well.

 

I understand how powerful it is to create a psychologically safe environment, one that gives people the confidence to explore unfamiliar and challenging ideas. When individuals feel secure enough to question their assumptions, perspectives, and fears, the insights emerge. I’ve seen many arrive with fixed beliefs about their own agency, only to leave with a completely changed perspective.

Ultimately, no person, tool, or program can reveal powerful insights if your mindset isn’t open to it. Therefore, individuals must decide whether to hold on to or let go of their current beliefs that shape their choices.

How

I pride myself on utilising my industry expertise to design content and deliver real and relevant programs that resonate with people.


I’ve moved away from the traditional listen-and-forget training model to embrace an approach that fosters true comprehension and meaningful engagement.

This shift enables a deeper and more lasting understanding of the content.


My programs are infused with practical experience and guided by pragmatism. I carefully craft my offerings to uncover opportunities that empower individuals with the freedom to choose the most suitable paths to progress.

"Derek is prepared to put himself where others want to be but are too scared to go...". The standard "stand and deliver" presentation style has been put to bed by Derek as he seeks, with both visual and verbal alacrity, to, at the most, convince people to change their ways and, at the least, to give them a jolt. He does this with a mix of personal insight and experience, humour and going to where the listeners are".

People & Organisational Development | Technology People & Capability | National Australia Bank Ltd.

"I found Derek's keynote inspiring, at times confronting, and very thought-provoking. The key takeaway was the need to work out what was really important in my life and focus most of my energies on it rather than get buried in the day-to-day clutter, which doesn't add value. He had a few people out of their comfort zones as some home truths hit them between the eyes. His use of humour and animated style of delivery also went down very well".

Business Development Manager, Mortgages - ANZ

"Rapport with the group - excellent; Energy - excellent; Facilitation - excellent"
Manager - Bendigo Bank

"Our team felt immensely grateful to have you join us, as your unique blend of knowledge and relaxed approach created an open atmosphere that allowed our members to understand the content provided and connect with you. Thank you for all your help!"
Manager - CFA

“This is one of the best team-building sessions we have been on. It was planned and executed exceptionally well. Excellent!”
MD - Nestle

“First class team of facilitators! They were spot on in identifying the real issues”.
Manager - ING

“Thankyou for your contribution in making our Excellence Awards an outstanding success. Your humour on stage was funny but also very professional”.
Director - Imagine IF Creative Solutions

“Thanks again for a fantastic session on Thursday - everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Thanks again for such a fun and professional session”
Manager - Genazzano FJC

“Well-organised, great activities that got people involved”.
Manager - Cengage

"Fun, relevant and very worthwhile. Over 95% of attendees rated your session as excellent”. Manager - BP

"Derek kept everyone involved and engaged, which is difficult over that time frame.  Even when people were singled out to answer questions, it wasn't difficult to answer, and there was no judgement.  I've already recommended Derek to my friends for their businesses".
Participant - Detpak

“Great fun! Very Interactive, good for audience participation and movement. Totally included audience”
Manager - Heinz

"I contribute the excellent feedback to you're approach and attitude to the group”
Manager - AIM

"Your professionalism made the session extra special, as you were well-prepared and able to answer any questions that arose. Throughout the session, we felt at ease sharing our thoughts and opinions, knowing there was always respect and understanding in the air"
Manager - Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS)

“Many thanks, Derek; your presentation will live in my memory as one of the best-ever! Thanks”
Participant -  Strategic Planning and Change Management Unit, Department for Families and
Communities

"We're immensely grateful for such an enriching presentation that we'll remember fondly for a long time. Thank you again for creating such a safe, supportive, productive environment while ensuring everyone had fun!"
Participant - ANSTO

"Your expertise, diligence, and enthusiasm created an atmosphere of enthusiasm that was conducive to great results - a testament to your efforts".
Manager - OMC international

"I am so thankful for the knowledge and care you demonstrated while helping us work through our challenges. Your discretion and ability to identify underlying problems were highly appreciated, allowing us to progress together respectfully".  MD - Jellis Craig

"The Derek Percival experience is a mind-awakening mix of thought provocation as well as self-personality confirmation, his delivery style is relaxed but energising and the entire day is fun with a capital F, if you can experience this without the urge to change your current lifestyle in some way then you are beyond help".

State Operations Manager - Schenker Australia