About COINS USA:
Management Team

Derek Leaver – Chief Executive

Derek joined the COINS board in 1996 and has over thirty years of experience in Information Technology, with the majority of that experience concentrated on the construction industry. With a technical background in large scale computer systems and data communications gained during his 14 years at Burroughs (Unisys), he was appointed Construction Industry Marketing Manager for their UK operation. In the mid 1980's, he joined the board of a Manchester (UK) based software house developing mainframe solutions for construction and manufacturing companies through the use of pioneering 4GL languages and development techniques. Before joining the COINS board, Derek worked as an independent consultant undertaking projects in Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Australia. At COINS he has held several board positions and was responsible for the establishment of our Australian and Dallas operations. Derek is now Chief Executive of the COINS companies, which encompasses specific responsibilities as CEO of the COINS USA company based in Albany, New York.

Richard Werner, P.E. – Chairman

Dick is Chairman of COINS USA and was the original founder and past president of Shaker. He has worked for the Bechtel Corporation, Stone and Webster Engineering Corporation, and C.T. Male Associates, P.C. He has taught at Cornell University, Union College, and the Pratt Institute. He oversees the company's specialization in high quality, innovative software, consulting, and computer products and processing for contractors. He also conducts construction industry seminars throughout the U.S., publishes frequently in Construction Industry publications, and is involved in several philanthropic organizations.

Dick is a frequent contributor to CFMA Building Profits, writing on a wide range of topics. Copies of several of his recent articles are available online:
Best in Class: Technology Investment Decisions
(PDF, 947 K)
Using Benchmarks and Metrics to Become a Best in Class Contractor
(PDF, 1.9 MB)
How to Measure Your Company's IT Spending
(PDF, 1.1 MB)

Pat McGowan – Chief Financial Officer

As Chief Financial Officer, Pat is responsible for planning and directing all fiscal activities, including accounting, budgeting, financial analysis, and financial reporting. He has built and now maintains relationships with auditors, vendors, bankers, and customers. Prior to joining Shaker (now COINS USA) in 2001, he held various managerial positions with First Albany Corporation and Fidelity Investments. Pat holds a Bachelors Degree in Economics from Cortland College and an MBA in Finance from Bentley College.

Al Diedrich – Applications Director

Al is Applications Director and has been the primary programmer of COINS since its first release in 1986. He wrote the original version and has either personally programmed or led the team that has written every release of COINS and COINS Ti to date. Before joining Shaker (now COINS USA) in 1982, Al was president of Advanced Computer Services, Inc. He has held positions in other firms, ranging from programmer to systems analyst to supervisor. His experience and knowledge of the product and COINS USA's client base make him invaluable and a key player in strategic planning and the development of COINS software.

Cathy Terwilliger – Sales & Marketing Director

Cathy is Sales & Marketing Director and has an in-depth background in professional disciplines such as software development project management, programming, and business analysis. Before joining Shaker (now COINS USA) in 1995, she worked in Washington, D.C. as a recruiter for Manpower Temporary Services. She has been involved in some of COINS USA's most challenging development projects, such as the Human Resource Suite and COINS Version 7. She oversees the marketing budget, supervises marketing and sales activities, and manages a staff of sales representatives and sales support personnel.

Dan Peyron – Professional Services Director

Dan is Professional Services Director with over 15 years of experience working in IT and professional services, supporting mission-critical commercial applications. Dan has an MS Degree in Management from the Lally School of Management at RPI. He is active in the Professional Services community, including www.psvillage.com, and recently contributed to Tips from the Trenches: The Collective Wisdom of Over 100 Professional Services Leaders (2007, Mahesh Baxi et al). He leverages his skills and experience in construction, technical services, and application support to provide practical, technical, and business guidance and leadership to the members of the project teams during the delivery of services.