Derek Cooke

Derek Cooke is responsible for overseeing Safe Production operations at Freeport McMoran’s Cerro Verde Facilities in Arequipa, Peru.  Derek joined the SMCV Team as General Manager – Mine Operations in 2015 before accepting the President role in 2016.  Prior to coming to Cerro Verde, he served as Vice President and General Manager of Freeport-McMoRan’s Miami Operations and Rod & Refining.  

Derek has over 38 years of experience working in the mining industry, the last eighteen with Freeport McMoran.  Over his career, he has had the privilege to contribute in various engineering and management positions in mining, leaching, smelting, projects, environmental, and reclamation.  He has a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Arizona.  He and his beloved wife of more than 38 years, Laura, have two children both residing in the United States.  Both Derek and Laura relish spending time with the family, traveling and enjoying the great food and atmosphere in Arequipa.