Darren Burns

Darren Burns is a leading voice in Diversity & Inclusion, best known for his transformative work in inclusive hiring and social mobility. As the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at the Timpson Group and Head of the Timpson Foundation, he has pioneered recruitment strategies that give second chances to ex-offenders and marginalised groups, helping them reintegrate into the workforce. His expertise in compassionate capitalism, inclusive leadership, and workplace equity has made him a sought-after speaker for organisations looking to drive meaningful change.

Darren’s career started in law enforcement, where he served as a Police Inspector at Merseyside Police. His experience working in some of the UK’s most challenging environments gave him first-hand insight into the barriers that many individuals face when trying to rebuild their lives after incarceration. Recognising that employment is key to reducing reoffending, Darren transitioned to the corporate sector, where he has helped make Timpson one of the UK’s most inclusive employers. He has developed prison training academies and built strong relationships with UK prisons, police forces, and probation services to ensure smoother transitions from custody to meaningful employment.

As a thought leader in social mobility, Darren has influenced not just Timpson but also the wider business community. Over 12% of Timpson’s workforce now consists of individuals with a criminal conviction, demonstrating the success of his initiatives. His work has been recognised as a model for inclusive hiring, inspiring businesses across industries to rethink traditional recruitment strategies. Darren also consults organisations on Diversity & Inclusion, providing practical frameworks for equitable hiring, employee retention, and workplace culture transformation. He holds a Master’s in Applied Criminology, Penology & Management from the University of Cambridge, further strengthening his expertise in rehabilitation and criminal justice reform.

As a keynote speaker, Darren Burns shares compelling stories and actionable insights that challenge stereotypes and inspire change. He speaks on topics such as inclusive recruitment, social mobility, second-chance employment, and compassionate capitalism. His engaging approach empowers leaders, HR professionals, and policymakers to implement genuine, long-term diversity strategies. Darren’s impact extends beyond his own organisation—he is driving a national conversation about the importance of creating opportunities for all, regardless of their past.