Darryl Brown

"The programme broadened my perspective on advisory work, especially around managing mutual expectations and time. It reinforced the importance of building trust and adapting rather than assuming I know everything from the start."

1. Can you tell us about your professional background and the key skillsets you bring to your portfolio career?

I started my career in the UK in software development and have since worked across Europe and the US in Internet, software, data communications, cloud, and AI. I focus on leadership in product management, marketing, and operations, helping companies scale and enable sales. I’ve worked with multinationals like Microsoft and Equinix, and currently provide B2B consultancy to help companies sharpen go-to-market strategies and expand offerings.

2. What motivated you to join the Transition to Portfolio programme?

I joined to expand my knowledge, access new prospects, and connect with like-minded professionals. More importantly, I wanted to share my experience to help entrepreneurs, founders, and investors grow their businesses.

3. What impact has completing the Transition to Portfolio programme had on your portfolio career?

The programme broadened my perspective on advisory work, especially around managing mutual expectations and time. It reinforced the importance of building trust and adapting rather than assuming I know everything from the start.

4. Which aspects of the programme helped you the most to prepare for future portfolio opportunities?

It taught me how to repackage my consulting and fractional CXO experience to better connect with prospects. The shift from selling to helping was key in positioning myself effectively for advisory roles.

5. How have the skills and knowledge gained through Connectd supported you in securing or approaching these positions?

Connectd helped me focus my broad experience on specific client needs, making my value clearer and easier to communicate. This specificity has been essential in securing advisory and fractional CMO roles.

6. Can you share a key moment or lesson that shaped your approach to fractional/advisory work?

Expanding beyond my usual tech B2B space taught me that my experience applies more broadly, especially when focusing on service offerings rather than just technology. Connectd helped me embrace this mindset and step outside my comfort zone.

7. How has the mentorship supported your transition into your portfolio career?

Mentorship has been invaluable for guidance on working with startups and fractional roles. Mentors also became part of my network, helping me generate business and provide feedback, which has helped grow my client base.

8. Do you feel more confident and prepared to take on non-executive director, fractional executive, or board advisor roles after participating with Connectd?

Yes, definitely. The programme built on my experience, improved my advisory approach, and gave me exposure to opportunities I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise.