Derek Winkel

For over 20 years, Derek Winkel has been responsible for managing manufacturing operations in the chemical and renewable fuel industries. Currently, Mr. Winkel serves as Vice President, Manufacturing Operations of Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REG).

As Vice President, Manufacturing Operations, Mr. Winkel coordinates the efficient operation of the company’s 11 operating plants by leading a team that monitors plant performance, analyzes data, and drives continuous improvement to increase margins and quality. In addition, Mr. Winkel oversees several areas that support plant operations, including environmental, health, and safety; sustainability; biodiesel process and mechanical engineering; and global manufacturing reliability. Mr. Winkel also serves as the General Manager of REG’s largest biorefinery, REG Grays Harbor. Mr. Winkel is also a key contributor in the selection and commercialization of new technology and plant acquisition due diligence.

Mr. Winkel joined REG in 2006 as the General Manager of REG Newton LLC during its construction and successfully led the plant through start-up and continued operations until transitioning to his current position full-time in 2010. Prior to joining REG, Mr. Winkel served as the Technical Manager for a 30 million gallon per year ethanol facility.

Mr. Winkel received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration from Iowa State University. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, the Industry Advisory Council of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Iowa State University, and is a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.