Derek Barber

Senior Consultant

Burns & Associates

Phoenix, AZ

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Derek Barber has more than a decade of experience in financial auditing and analysis, financial and cost accounting, program and policy evaluation, and fraud investigations. 

Derek served as chief audit executive for the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES). He also oversaw several audit teams, including the team designated to conduct audits of home and community-based services (HCBS) claims for DES’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). During his tenure with DES, Derek oversaw multiple performance and information technology (IT) audits, including detailed studies of DDD’s licensing practices for HCBS providers, claims adjudication controls and practices, and IT system processing controls. Prior to joining DES, he held positions with increasing responsibility in public sector auditing, financial crimes investigations, and business analysis. 

At Burns & Associates, now a division of HMA, Derek has developed detailed statistical and financial reports; conducted data analysis; assisted with the design, administration, and analysis of numerous provider surveys; and conducted regulatory and policy analysis. He has completed fiscal impact estimates, developed rate models, and provided additional post-implementation support to several states in which Burns & Associates successfully completed rate studies. He also has provided research and analytical support to several community needs assessments and childcare market rate studies. 

Derek earned a Master of Business Administration from Grand Canyon University. He holds active certifications as a certified internal auditor and a certified government auditing professional with the Institute of Internal Auditors.