Derrick Applewhite

About Derrick Applewhite

I\'m a dynamic government affairs professional driven by a passion for helping businesses and communities across North Carolina solve complex policy challenges. Throughout my career, I’ve relied on a people-first approach that combines legislative strategy, coalition building, and local government expertise to deliver results that move organizations and communities forward.Today, I serve as the Government Relations Director for Checkmate Government Relations, where I carry out advocacy efforts for a diverse portfolio of clients across nearly every major sector of North Carolina\'s economy. At Checkmate, we bring unique expertise, unparalleled relationships, and unmatched work ethic to solve the most complex public policy challenges in our state. Previously, I served as Senior Government Affairs Associate and Lobbyist for the North Carolina League of Municipalities, representing 551 cities, towns, and villages across the state. I advocated before the General Assembly on key municipal issues including housing, land use, local finance, elections, employer regulation, and ABC policy, ensuring that North Carolina’s municipalities had a strong and credible voice in state policymaking.Before entering state advocacy, I worked in the Planning Department at the Town of Garner, where I gained a hands-on understanding of land use planning, development review, and local regulatory processes. That early experience continues to inform my work today by grounding my legislative strategy in a practical understanding of how policy translates into real-world outcomes for communities.My time outside of work is spent close to home, helping to improve my own community. In 2020, I co-founded Friends of Johnston County Parks, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing parks, open space, recreation, and the arts. Since then, our volunteers have improved public spaces, supported new park developments, and inspired residents to connect with the outdoors. In 2023, I was appointed to the Town of Clayton Planning Board, where I work to promote smart, sustainable growth while preserving the character and charm that make Clayton home.

Experience

1. Government Relations Director

   Checkmate Government Relations

   Oct 2025 — Present · Raleigh, NC, US

Education

• The Ohio State University

  Master of Public Administration

  2018 — 2020

• North Carolina State University

  Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

  2014 — 2018

Skills

• Conflict Prevention
• Team Motivation
• Program Management
• Recreation
• Team Leadership
• Customer Service
• Employee Training
• Staff Retention
• Microsoft Office
• Public Speaking
• Leadership
• Management
• Program Development
• Conflict Management
• Risk Management
• Scheduling
• Database Administration
• Training and Development