Derek Merrin is a state representative in State House District 42. He was named to this position in 2023. He previously served as a state representative in State House District 47. He was elected to this position in 2016 and served for 3 terms. He is a former Mayor of the City of Waterville. He was named to that position in 2008 and served for 1 term. He also served as a member of the Waterville City Council, but he did not serve for a full term. He is a former chairperson of the House Ways and Means Committee.

Derek owns a business, Merrin Property Holdings, LLC. He previously worked as a realtor at Key Realty, LTD. He previously worked as a regional liaison and a performance analyst for the State Auditor's office.

Derek lives in Monclova Township. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo and a master's degree in public administration and international relations from Bowling Green State University. He also earned a public performance measurement certificate from Rutgers University at Newark.