Robert Derse holds a Master of Science in Business with majors in Real Estate and Finance, as well as a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), holds the MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute, and is a Certified General Appraiser in Texas.

Since entering the business valuation and consulting industry in 1979, Mr. Derse has conducted and supervised a wide range of valuation, consulting, and financial analysis engagements. His work includes business valuations for manufacturing, distribution, commercial service, and real estate‑related companies; appraisals of partnership interests and complex tiered entities; valuation of management contracts and partnership interests in litigation matters; feasibility studies; and due diligence for commercial loan and real estate portfolios. He has provided expert testimony in Federal District and U.S. Bankruptcy Courts, offering valuation and financial analysis in accountant liability, divorce, bankruptcy, and business dispute cases.

His industry experience spans homebuilding, financial software, construction, restaurants, telecommunications, real estate development, promotional products, and senior housing, as well as extensive appraisal work for shopping centers, office buildings, hotels, industrial facilities, and other specialized property types.

Outside the office, Mr. Derse enjoys participating in his church community with his wife and is an avid supporter of Wisconsin sports. He also remains actively involved in professional organizations such as the CFA Society of Dallas/Fort Worth.