Derek Hagy

About Derek Hagy

Picture a Texas refinery in March 2025, its production line frozen, the air heavy with urgency. A global shortage of Antimony Trioxide, driven by China’s export restrictions, had brought operations to a standstill. The plant manager’s question hung in the air: “What now?” Most distributors would have shrugged, their hands tied by empty supply chains. I saw something else—a puzzle waiting to be solved.With a Ph.D. in Chemistry, I approached the crisis not as a dead end but as an opportunity. I recalled a recent white paper I read on alternative catalysts, tapped my network of suppliers, and delivered a titanium-based catalyst within days, cutting costs and enhancing sustainability—a quiet win with a lasting impact. The plant hummed back to life, and the manager’s relief was palpable. This wasn’t just a transaction; it was a revelation about what chemical distribution could be.The lesson here is subtle but profound: in an industry often defined by routine, the difference lies in thinking like a scientist and acting like a partner. For over a decade, I have refined this approach, beginning with my time at Nalco Water, where I mastered water and process treatment and subsequently conquered challenges in energy, chemical manufacturing, agriculture, and many other sectors. I don’t just supply standard chemistries like other distributors; I dive into your processes, crafting tailored solutions that precisely fit your needs, guided by research and market insight.I channel this expertise into action at Portage Trading Co, a veteran-owned firm. Our commitment to innovation, agility, and customer-first service empowers me to deliver tailored solutions that typical distributors can’t match. Yet, it’s my curiosity—honed over years of listening and problem-solving—that drives every project.Being a Texan is at the core of who I am, and I embrace that deeply. My days are filled with exhilarating adventures alongside my two pups, Barkley and Chase, who remind me that the best moments come from simply living in the now. And then there are my Dallas Cowboys—my unwavering team that has tested my loyalty for over three decades! Every day feels like a new journey, and I wouldn’t trade this life for anything! Nature, exercise, and a good book or podcast fuel my creativity, inspiring me with fresh ideas that I bring back into my work. It\'s a vibrant cycle of joy and inspiration that keeps me going!Here’s the thing: in a world of supply chain chaos, the quiet innovators often hold the keys. What’s your next challenge? Let’s solve it together.

Experience

1. Executive Vice President of Business Development

   Prathista Industries Limited

   Apr 2022 — Present · Houston, TX, US

Education

• Howard Payne University

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Chemistry, Biochemistry

  2003 — 2008

• Baylor University

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Biochemistry and Inorganic Chemistry

  2008 — 2011

• Baylor University

  Master of Public Health - MPH, Community Health Education | Epidemiology

  2009 — 2011

Skills

• Data Analysis
• Statistics
• Biotechnology
• Leadership
• Technical Writing
• Sales
• Management
• Protein Chemistry
• Business Development
• Process Improvement
• Marketing
• Water Treatment
• Strategic Planning
• Recruiting
• Sales Process
• Public Speaking
• Project Management
• Analytical Chemistry
• Water & Wastewater Design
• Research
• Science
• Teaching
• Microsoft Office
• Industrial Water Treatment
• Wastewater Treatment