Department: Leadership
Leading Creative Solutions to Drive Economic Growth
As Vice President of Creative Development at Golden Shovel Agency, Darren Varley specializes in branding, website design, and marketing collateral, ensuring economic development organizations effectively communicate their vision. He leads the GateKeeper Service—key to GSA’s 95% client retention rate—and oversees the ShovelHub team in executing high-quality creative projects. His expertise in creative strategy, marketing, and customer engagement plays a crucial role in delivering impactful solutions for clients.
Throughout his tenure, Darren has contributed to numerous economic development projects, serving as Project Manager, Creative Director, and Graphic Designer for various initiatives. He has extensive experience in branding, marketing, customer support, and video production, helping to shape the communication strategies of GSA’s clients.
Darren is also actively engaged in his local community, serving as a board member of both the 7 Rivers Alliance in La Crosse, WI, and the East Side Area Business Association in St. Paul, MN, where he contributes to event planning, rebranding efforts, and membership growth. Additionally, he supports the Randy Shaver Cancer Research & Community Fund as a Silver Sponsor and volunteer.
He holds a BFA in Graphic Design and Advertising from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Outside of his professional work, Darren is passionate about community involvement and supporting economic growth at the local level.
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