Darren Wood (MSc, MCIPR, ACMI, ACIM)

Darren W. has a diverse work experience spanning several industries and roles. Darren is currently the Head of Data Product Strategy at ITV, where they lead a team focused on implementing Data Mesh and building Data Products for ITVX, the new streaming service. Prior to this, Darren served as a Non-Executive Director for Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles, overseeing multiple leisure centers, golf courses, museums, parks, and theaters across Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, and Staffordshire. Darren also has experience at Cox Automotive Europe, where they held roles such as Head of Product for Europe, Modix Board Member, and Cox Europe Retail Solutions Board Member, as well as Senior Product Lead for Platform & Data. Before that, Darren worked at Auto Trader UK, where they held various Product Lead and Product Marketing roles, responsible for commercial products, dealer portals, trade advertising, and overseeing multiple squads. Earlier in their career, they served as the Head of Product and Marketing for International markets at 10ticksUK, expanding the brand internationally and improving the business in the UK. Darren also gained experience as the Managing Director of three start-up businesses, utilizing their contacts overseas to market the software. Darren's early career involved working for the UK Government as a Technology Strategy Board Manager, utilizing their expertise in product, marketing, and business development. Darren also worked as a Business & Marketing Consultant for various healthcare and legal companies, helping them grow through structured marketing campaigns and business plans. With a diverse range of experiences, Darren has demonstrated their ability to drive strategic growth and innovation in various industries.

Darren W. began their education at The University of Manchester, where they studied Criminology & Social Policy from 2006 to 2009. In 2009-2010, they attended Alliance Manchester Business School to pursue an MSc in Business Enterprise, focusing on Business, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship. During the same period from 2010 to 2012, Darren also studied Leadership and Management at the Chartered Management Institute, where they achieved a Level 5 membership. In 2011-2012, they became an Affiliate member at CIM | The Chartered Institute of Marketing. Furthermore, from 2011 to 2012, Darren obtained a Level 7 Diploma in Public Relations from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, making him an Accredited Practitioner in Public Relations. Additionally, in 2012-2013, they pursued a Diploma in Hypnotherapy at the Institute of Leadership & Management. Darren continued their education at the same institute with a study of Neuro Linguistic Programming in 2012-2013. Later, in 2016, they studied "The Business of Football" at The Open University. Lastly, they completed a course in Advanced Copywriting at Runshaw College from 2010 to 2012.