'A Masterclass in Visionary Creative Leadership'
/ Darren Borrino / INKFISH Founder
/ Darren Borrino / INKFISH Founder
As an award-winning creative powerhouse, Darren Borrino’s journey from Art Director to agency founder involves visionary risk-taking, global collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of creative excellence. From his tenure at Saatchi & Saatchi Australia to his groundbreaking work as Group Creative Director at TBWA\Chiat\Day, Borrino has consistently demonstrated an ability to craft compelling narratives that captivate audiences and elevate brands.
Now, as the founder of inkfish®, his disruptive, fast-moving creative agency, Borrino continues to push the envelope, assembling a diverse and dynamic team of talent from around the world to create high-impact, unexpected campaigns for clients across industries. In this corner office editorial interview, we delve into Borrino’s career and explore how his leadership journey can inspire you as an executive, entrepreneur, and future founder to unlock your leadership potential.
Corner Office with Darren Borrino
From Agency Stalwart to FOUNDER: A Career Built on Bold Moves
Borrino’s creative journey spans continents and some of the world’s most renowned advertising agencies, but it was his work at TBWA\Chiat\Day that truly solidified his reputation as a creative leader. As Group Creative Director, Borrino was instrumental in winning the highly coveted Nissan North America business back for TBWA after a year-long pitching process. This win, coupled with his platform idea securing Hilton Hotels’ global account, marked a turning point in his career and proved his ability to lead large-scale, high-stakes campaigns.
Among his many accolades, Borrino has earned multiple D&AD Yellow Pencils, Gold Cannes Lions, Grand Prix Spikes Asia awards, and Gold Clios, demonstrating his ability to craft memorable, award-winning campaigns. His leadership at TBWA also saw him produce iconic projects such as a Nissan x Star Wars commercial in collaboration with Lucasfilm and Industrial Light & Magic, as well as a cinematic ad for Eastbay directed by Noam Murro.
But after years of driving creative innovation for major brands, Borrino sought a new challenge: founding inkfish® in 2023. Now focused on disrupting the traditional advertising model inkfish® creates highly effective campaigns that resonate with consumers and push the boundaries in brand marketing.
Takeaways for Entrepreneurs, Founders, and Executives.
We chose to showcase Borrino’s leadership journey as it offers a blueprint for anyone looking to cultivate creativity, grow a business, or elevate leadership skills. From navigating the complex dynamics of global brands to building and nurturing high-performing teams, Borrino has built a career based on principles that anyone in leadership can apply to their own endeavors.
Here are three actionable steps that leaders at any stage of their careers can use to sharpen their leadership capabilities:
1. Lead with Creative Courage
One of the cornerstones of Borrino’s success has been his ability to embrace bold creative ideas, even when they may seem risky or unconventional. When done successfully, this fearless approach to creativity garners industry recognition and a loyal following from teams and clients who trust your vision.
‣ Actionable Insight: As a leader, it’s essential to encourage your team to take creative risks. Avoid playing it safe or adhering to old standards; instead, foster an environment where unconventional ideas are celebrated. This mindset can help differentiate your brand and elevate your leadership profile. What is one step you can take toward creative courage today?
2. Build a Global, Collaborative Network
In the globalized world of business today, success often hinges on collaboration across borders. Understanding that the best ideas often come from collaboration—and by intentionally building a network of talented professionals from various backgrounds is key.
‣ Actionable Insight: To develop as a leader, actively build a diverse network of professionals who bring varied skills, perspectives, and expertise. This will not only broaden your strategic thinking but also help you lead more inclusively, enabling your business to thrive in a global economy. How can you be intentional to foster collaboration and connection?
3. Empower Your Team and Foster Growth
Perhaps one of Borrino’s most impressive qualities as a leader is his focus on empowering his team. Throughout his career, he has prioritized mentoring young creative minds and helping them realize their full potential. By creating environments where his teams can innovate, experiment, and grow, Borrino has built a legacy of leadership that extends beyond his achievements.
‣ Actionable Insight: Great leaders recognize the importance of developing talent within their organization. This approach not only enhances team morale but also positions your business for long-term growth by building the next generation of leaders. How can you create opportunities for mentorship or supply your team with the autonomy to execute their ideas, and celebrate their successes?
The Road Ahead: A Visionary Leader’s Next Chapter
As inkfish® continues to disrupt the industry, Darren Borrino’s leadership philosophy remains rooted in boldness, collaboration, and empowerment. By continually pushing boundaries and embracing creative risks, Borrino shows that great leadership is about more than just results—it’s about creating an environment where creativity, diversity, and passion can flourish.
Whether you’re building a startup or leading a large organization, we can approach creativity, collaboration, and talent development as Darren demonstrates- navigating the present while boldly shaping the future.
‣ Inspired by this editorial? Join us for more inspiration and insights!
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is an interview series with Executives, Founders, & Entrepreneurs by the Strategy Studio™ aimed to illuminate the valuable insights shining from within the stories and journeys of the business professionals who lived them.
