Derek Ralston

Derek Ralston began his career at Aon Risk Services, Inc. in New York, where he worked with leading private equity firms including Apollo, Bain Capital, and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice. His work focused on developing unsecured bond underwriting programs for highly leveraged companies—an experience that gave him early exposure to complex financial structures and high-stakes decision-making.

In 2000, Derek joined Trade Manage, LLC, a regional brokerage firm in northern New Jersey. On the trading desk, he specialized in order execution, analyzing stock movements to optimize pricing and providing clients with timely market insights. His performance and leadership earned him the role of Vice President of Business Development, where he worked directly with the CEO and high-net-worth clients to expand the firm’s strategic relationships.

In 2002, Derek co-founded Celadon Financial Group, a boutique advisory firm in Chatham, NJ. There, he focused on advising institutional and high-net-worth clients across equities, options, and select fixed-income products. In 2009, he co-launched an investment fund, contributing to its formation and portfolio management.

Derek was introduced to Income & Asset Advisory, Inc. in the summer of 2011 and joined the firm that September. Since then, he has focused on building portfolios designed to generate income and long-term growth through capital appreciation. His approach is grounded in transparency, education, and collaboration—working closely with clients to develop investment plans that are both understandable and aligned with their goals.

As a fee-only fiduciary advisor, Derek is committed to providing unbiased guidance. He does not receive commissions or compensation from any investment products, ensuring that every recommendation is made solely in the client’s best interest. His compensation is based exclusively on the assets he manages, reinforcing a relationship built on trust and accountability.

In 2025, Derek became a principal of the firm, continuing his commitment to helping clients navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape.

Derek holds a B.A. in Economics with a minor in English from Binghamton University and resides in northern Bergen County, New Jersey.