Derek Kearns

Derek Kearns Profile Photo

Partner, SEC & SPAC Practice Leader

Derek is a Partner at Centri Business Consulting and the leader of the firm’s SEC, Financial Reporting & SPAC Practice. He has more than 25 years of accounting experience in both public and private industries. He joined Centri in September 2020 and has focused on Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules and regulations, recurring public company SEC filings, IPO registration statements, business combination filings and pro forma financial statements as well as private company IPO readiness activities and strategies. Additionally, he has significant experience with both domestic and international public filers in the technology, media, and telecommunications sectors, the mining industry, life sciences, merchant services, as well as experience in the cannabis industry and manufacturing.

Prior to his time with Centri, Derek oversaw the reporting and technical accounting functions at Mile High Labs, an international cannabinoid and CBD product manufacturer. He also successfully operated an independent consulting business for four years.

Derek has held management positions at multiple Fortune 250 companies, as well as a public gold exploration company, overseeing SEC reporting and technical accounting functions. Derek began his career with Deloitte, where he spent six years in the audit and assurance practice.

He received his B.S. in Accounting and Finance from The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN. He is a Certified Public Accountant in the state of Colorado.

Aug. 27, 2025

SPAC Talk with Derek Kearns

Centri's Derek Kearns on what happens behind the scenes of a de-SPAC, from early capital markets readiness to pro forma financials and the SEC comment process.
Guest: Derek Kearns
Aug. 15, 2025

What Target Companies Should Do Before Merging with a SPAC

Centri's Derek Kearns on how SPAC targets should prepare, starting with a capital markets readiness assessment across finance, accounting, IT, tax, and HR.
Guest: Derek Kearns
Aug. 6, 2025

The Biggest Misconception About SPAC Mergers

Centri's Derek Kearns on the myth that a SPAC is quicker and easier than an IPO, and why audited financials, governance, and controls still have to be ready.
Guest: Derek Kearns
Aug. 1, 2025

What SPAC Teams Look for in a Potential Merger Target

Centri's Derek Kearns on how SPAC sponsors vet a target, from PCAOB audits and forecast quality to internal controls, leadership, and legal risk.
Guest: Derek Kearns
July 29, 2025

Why Is Crypto Attracting So Much SPAC Attention Right Now?

Centri's Derek Kearns on why digital assets and crypto became one of the fastest-moving SPAC sectors in 2025, with deals like ProCap and Tron.
Guest: Derek Kearns
July 24, 2025

Key Ingredients of a Well-Executed SPAC Transaction

Mike Blankenship and Derek Kearns on what separates successful SPACs: experienced sponsors, strong legal, banking, and accounting advisors, and disciplined timelines.
Guest: Derek Kearns
July 18, 2025

Why are SPACs Gaining Traction Again in 2025?

Mike Blankenship and Derek Kearns on why SPACs are back in focus: boom-era SPACs returned billions to investors, and with IPOs slow, that capital needs a home.
Guest: Derek Kearns
July 17, 2025

SPAC Guest Spotlight: Derek Kearns

Centri partner Derek Kearns on 25+ years in accounting and leading the firm's SEC, financial reporting, and SPAC practice.
Guest: Derek Kearns