With over three decades of hands-on experience spanning industrial design, product management, and innovation leadership, Darren is a seasoned expert in driving product success. Having worked with Fortune 500 companies and private equity firms, Darren brings a wealth of knowledge in navigating complex product landscapes.
Darren’s expertise lies in the front end of innovation, leveraging a deep understanding of voice-of-customer techniques and stage-gate and agile methodologies to develop and manage robust, adaptable product roadmaps that guide successful product launches. This strategic focus ensures clients maximize profitability by identifying and nurturing high-potential ideas early on while minimizing risk through ongoing roadmap assessment and adjustment.
Throughout Darren’s career, numerous product launches totaling hundreds of millions of dollars in annualized revenue are testaments to his ability to translate creative concepts into marketable, profitable realities. Notable achievements include leading the development of BEHR Paint’s first pro paint lines, developing the design language for all of BEHR Paint’s physical products, and pioneering environmentally sustainable paint products.
Darren’s unique qualifications include a Master of Science degree in Creativity and Innovation, a rare distinction among industry professionals. Additionally, he holds the prestigious New Product Development Professional (NPDP) certification and numerous patents, solidifying his standing as an impactful thought leader in the field.
Darren’s concise and effective presentation skills, honed through speaking engagements at multiple international conferences on innovation, and rooted in visual communication techniques from his experience as a designer, further enhance his ability to communicate complex product strategies and ensure alignment across diverse stakeholders.
As an instructor and mentor at the University of California Irvine, Darren empowers the next generation of innovators. This passion for sharing knowledge extends to consulting, where he leverages a vast network of professionals to provide clients with tailored solutions without unnecessary overhead.
Known for a polymathic approach, infectious energy, and unwavering support, Darren is the ideal partner for companies seeking to transform their product strategy and achieve breakthrough growth.