Derek Stross serves as CORE Wealth Advisors’ Director of Tax Strategy. His background in public accounting, including prior roles as controller for two construction industry companies, provides him with a strong understanding of corporate and individual financial complexities. 

Derek is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and also holds the Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) and Certified Valuation Analyst® (CVA) designations. He applies this expertise to help clients navigate complex tax and financial planning matters while aligning strategies with long-term wealth management objectives. He is active in the Estate Planning Council of Polk County, the Florida Institute of CPAs, the American Institute of CPAs, and the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts. 

Derek earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Management Information Systems from Florida State University and an MBA from the University of South Florida. He is also deeply involved in the community as Vice President of the Kiwanis Club of Lakeland and a member of the Knights of Columbus.