Darran is Development Director at Placefirst, responsible for driving UK growth with over 34 years’ experience in the development industry, having joined from Peel L&P as Development Director responsible for the £5bn Liverpool Waters scheme.

Prior to this he was Managing Director of Engine of the North, Cheshire East Council's wholly owned development company, formed to undertake development of the Council's £400m assets delivering regeneration and capital receipts.

He also spent 15 years as Development Director at Muse Developments and English Cities Fund responsible for numerous mixed use, award winning schemes throughout the country.