It is with great sadness that we bring you news of the recent passing of our beloved Chairman, Derek Jacobs.
Derek Jacobs M.A. (Oxon.)  was a South African born businessman.  He received his BA from Rhodes in 1965 and went on to enjoy a prestigous career leading businesses to success in senior roles, including  MD of Metal Box (SA) and later Nampak Ltd.
During his time in South Africa Derek was an ardent supporter of our sister organisation the Wilderness Leadership School and was described by our Founder and Patron Dr. Ian Player as “one of the few people who understand wilderness and business.”
Derek and his family relocated to the UK and following a period as an active trustee of The Wilderness Foundation, he was unanimously elected to the role of Chairman on the retirement of his predecessor Euan Macdonald.   Under Derek’s guidance and with his support the Foundation has gone from strength-to-strength, and both we and the wilderness movement owe Derek a great debt.
Derek was much admired by staff and colleagues alike and is someone for whom we will all hold a lasting affection and very fond remembrances.
Derek died peacefully with his family around him on 13th November, following a difficult illness bravely borne.   He will be sadly missed by all.