Darren Houghton

His experience spans fresh produce, food processing and ingredients through to agri-inputs and agri-tech. He advises family-owned, corporate and private equity-backed businesses on leadership appointments that support succession, growth and transformation.

A trained executive coach, Darren combines sector knowledge with experience of board and senior leadership searches for businesses and research institutions. He assesses leaders for cultural fit as well as capability, with particular attention to shareholder priorities and the demands of acquisition, international expansion and leadership transition. His network includes senior executives, Chairs and Non-Executive Directors across the food value chain and adjacent sectors.

His work covers CEO, COO and Managing Director roles, alongside commercial and operational leadership, Chair and Non-Executive appointments. He supports established food producers and agribusiness groups as well as agri-tech companies in biotechnology and plant science, helping businesses strengthen leadership as they grow and commercialise innovation.

Before Korn Ferry, Darren was a director and shareholder at a boutique search firm specialising in fresh food and farming. He built its search capability and team, developed global agrifood client relationships and expanded its agri-tech presence. He began his career recruiting investment and private equity professionals across Europe.

He holds a BA (Hons) in History from Edge Hill University and an MA in Twentieth Century History from the University of Liverpool. He also holds a Diploma in Executive Coaching from the Oasis School of Human Relations and a Certificate in Professional Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

Darren is a former Chair of the Board at GIPSIL, a not-for-profit organisation supporting young people and their families in disadvantaged communities in Leeds and the surrounding areas.