Our Team

Derek Wasak

President, Managing Director

With over 17 years of brewing industry experience as a former Head Brewer and Director of Operations, Derek brings unparalleled expertise to Plato Beverage Consulting. Specializing in Operational Planning and Improvement, Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) for breweries, brewpubs, cideries, distilleries, and beverage manufacturers. Derek helps owners gain visibility into their business to optimize efficiency and improve profitability through an operational and financial lens with data-driven insights.

Derek leverages his deep operational management background to deliver operational audits, financial reviews, custom KPI dashboards, and actionable recommendations for improvement. He spent years developing the Plato Improvement Process, a proven, data-focused process that drives increased production efficiency, cost reductions, and enhances margin health. Often leading to recaptured revenue, meaningful gains in efficiency, and profitability improvements for clients.

After years spent in the trenches, professionally brewing, managing daily operations, designing facilities, and making award winning beer, Derek transitioned into full-time consulting by founding Plato Beverage Consulting in 2019. Now, he empowers brewery owners nationwide with Financial and Operational Planning, Business Planning, and Operational Improvement services. Turning complex data into visible performance metrics, actionable improvement plans, and recaptured revenue. Passionate about profitability and efficiency, Derek is committed to helping your brewery thrive with expert financial and operational guidance.