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Darren is a highly respected strategic leader, bringing over 20 years of experience to his role as Principal Lecturer at Harper Adams. Specialising in strategy, policy, and delivery leadership in complex, high-pressure environments, he has consistently delivered impactful outcomes across public, private, and third sector contexts.

His extensive leadership background includes senior roles within HM Government, notably at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Darren’s expertise is particularly distinguished in transformation, policy implementation, cultural change, systems thinking, and strategic partnership development. He has led programmes with budgets ranging up to £1bn and multidisciplinary teams of up to 1,400 people. Darren has contributed as an author to several significant government publications, including National Audit Office Insight reports and the refresh of the Government Green Book, Orange Book, and Teal Book.

At SA¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½, Darren will leverage his deep experience in strategic leadership and organisational innovation to develop dynamic student pathways within the Harper Business School. He will also oversee the design and delivery of short courses aimed at both introductory exposure and ongoing professional development. His pedagogical approach emphasises practical application, simulation, creative problem solving, and stakeholder collaboration.

Darren has significant experience in teaching and programme development, having designed and led bespoke educational and pastoral programmes for national apprenticeships. He has authored qualifications as Level 4 (Higher Apprenticeship) and Level 6 (Integrated Degree).

Darren is a Leadership Fellow at the College of St George (Windsor Castle), a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Arts, and a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute. He has been recognised for outstanding contributions to social progress and commended by multiple professional bodies, including the Association for Project Management and the Mayor of London.

Outside academia, Darren actively contributes to community development through mentoring, coaching, and social enterprise initiatives including Ignis Lodge, a transition centre for veterans and young care leavers experiencing crisis in the West Midlands. Darren is a member of the England Rugby Inclusive Leadership Delivery Group reporting to RFU Council to promote, grow, and sustain diversity across the breadth and depth of English rugby. Darren remains a review lead for HM Treasury and UK Parliament. All of which reflects a personal commitment to societal improvement and lifelong learning.