Derrick Naidoo

Derrick Naidoo has extensive work experience in the pulp and paper industry. Derrick started their career as a PULPMAKER at Sappi in 1999, where they maintained daily production rates and plant performance. Derrick later worked as a Senior Process Technician, monitoring plant operations and driving optimization projects.

In 2004, Naidoo became a Process Manager at Sappi, responsible for strategic operations management and ensuring plant availability. Derrick then took on the role of Technology Manager for Pulp, monitoring daily mill operations and facilitating planning with the management teams.

Naidoo joined Mondi Group in 2013 as a Business Unit Manager, leading a team responsible for power and recovery functions. Derrick focused on achieving production targets and implementing strategic projects.

From 2014 to 2019, Naidoo worked at Sappi Paper and Paper Packaging as a Production Manager for Chemical and Recovery. Derrick led a team responsible for black liquor recovery and implemented cost management strategies.

Derrick then moved to Sappi Ngodwana in 2020 as a Mill Manager, overseeing utilities and services. Derrick'sresponsibilities included managing power boilers, recovery furnaces, chemical plants, and water treatment sections. Derrick was also involved in upgrades and employee development.

In 2022, Naidoo joined Sappi Saiccor as a Mill Manager for Recovery and Services. Derrick handled the recovery and services functions, ensuring quality, uptime, safety, and cost targets were met.

Currently, Naidoo serves as a Business Unit Manager at Oji Fibre Solutions, a position they started in 2022.

Derrick Naidoo has a diverse education history. Derrick began their education at ML Sultan Secondary School, where they obtained their Matric degree in 1993. Derrick then attended Pretoria Technikon from 1996 to 1999, earning a National Diploma in Pulp and Paper Engineering. In 2001, they furthered their education at Natal Technikon, completing a B Tech degree in Pulp and Paper Engineering in 2002. Derrick then attended Durban University of Technology from 2004 to 2005, where they pursued an ABP B Tech Management degree. In 2007, they briefly attended Durban University of Technology again, specializing in Project Management. Finally, in 2008, Derrick completed their education by obtaining a Masters in Business Administration from the Management College of South Africa with a focus on Business Administration and Management, General.