Fireside Chat with Darrel Branch ('91)
About this Event
FIRESIDE CHAT WITH DARREL BRANCH ('91)
From Fortune 100 to Entrepreneurship: Lessons in Leadership, Marketing & Growth
Join the Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship (GCFE) for an engaging evening conversation with Darrel Branch ('91), a highly accomplished global C-suite executive, entrepreneur, investor, and board member with over 30 years of experience building brands for Fortune 100 companies, including Procter & Gamble, The Coca-Cola Company, and Revlon before transitioning into entrepreneurship and advising high-growth companies. His career spans consumer marketing, strategy, branding, business development, and people leadership.
At the corporate level, Darrel led teams responsible for the international marketing and development of new products, established brands, and new business acquisition, including helping build the Nestea brand. His work reached customers and markets across Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Darrel has since translated his corporate expertise into a successful entrepreneurial path, facilitating business opportunities across health and beauty, technology, consumer products, hospitality, and sports and entertainment. Today, he advises founders and growing ventures, bringing the same brand and marketing discipline to companies at every stage.
What to Expect:
During this moderated Fireside Chat, Darrel will share lessons from his entrepreneurial and corporate journey, exploring how leadership, marketing, innovation, and strategic thinking can help transform ideas into successful businesses. Drawing from experience launching brands, leading global marketing initiatives, serving on corporate boards, and mentoring entrepreneurs, he will discuss the skills and mindset needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving business environment.
Following the conversation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an audience Q&A and connect with Darrel during a networking reception.
Event Details:
October 15, 2026 | 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
James Madison University | Hartman Hall | The Forum | Room 2021
Snacks and beverages provided.
This event is open to students, alumni, and members of the community.
Visitor Parking:
Complimentary event parking has been arranged for up to 20 campus visitors in the P and G Lots. Virtual parking permits are valid for the entire day on October 15. To redeem a virtual permit:
- Visit https://jmu.aimsparking.com and select “Redeem Event Permit.”
- Select the event: 10/15/26 Fireside Chat with Darrell Branch
- Enter event permit code: 1367
- Enter your vehicle information and confirm the transaction. You will receive an email receipt once your permit has been successfully redeemed.
Detailed instructions for redeeming an event permit are available at:
https://jmu.edu/parking/event-parking/event_redemptions.pdf
Please note that these permits are for campus visitors only and may not be redeemed by anyone currently enrolled at, compensated by, or employed as an affiliate of James Madison University. Event permits do not authorize parking in specially designated spaces, including Service Vehicle spaces, accessible spaces without the appropriate permit, expired timed spaces, or Fire Lanes.
JMU's campus parking map is available here:
https://www.jmu.edu/parking/_files/parkingmap.pdf
Agenda
🕑: 04:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Open Networking & Enjoy Food
🕑: 04:30 PM - 04:35 PM
Welcome & Introduction
🕑: 04:35 PM - 05:05 PM
Guest Speaker Presentation w/ Moderator Questions
🕑: 05:05 PM - 05:25 PM
Questions From the Audience
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
