Darren Thomas
Co-founder and CEO, Double Helix Tracking Technologies
MBA, Class of 2006
Darren Thomas’ deep appreciation for nature stems from his experiences travelling to Asia during his childhood, visiting relatives in Malaysia. These journeys, alongside time spent appreciating natural landscapes in both the tropics and the UK, nurtured an enduring connection to the environment. These formative experiences shaped his perspective on the importance of preserving the natural world and laid the foundation for a career rooted in sustainability.
As an adult, Darren carved out a successful path as the Regional Marketing Director for a global info-telecom company in Asia. The role sharpened his strategic thinking, leadership skills, and ability to manage diverse teams across cultures. Yet, despite the professional growth, a nagging feeling persisted—an urge to pursue work that aligned with his deeper values and love for the environment. The corporate world, for all its challenges and rewards, felt disconnected from his passion for nature.
This search for purpose led Darren to NUS Business School, where he embarked on an MBA journey in 2006. The experience was transformative. Surrounded by peers from all corners of the globe, he learned that business could be more than profit—it could be a force for positive change. The diversity and shared insights of his classmates broadened Darren’s vision, opening his eyes to the potential of merging business acumen with meaningful impact. Exposure to Entrepreneurship and Marketing courses was especially inspiring, leading Darren to believe he could start a business or join a start-up.
The turning point came when he met Kevin Hill, a UK Chartered Builder with a reputation for sustainable timber construction and responsible sourcing. Kevin’s knowledge of timber supply chains and his commitment to ethical practices resonated deeply with Darren. Their discussions soon evolved into a shared vision: a business that would harness technology to fight the global challenge of illegal logging. In 2008, they co-founded Double Helix Tracking Technologies, determined to lead with an innovative approach that combined their strengths.
Double Helix pioneered the use of DNA-based timber verification, a method that uses genetic analysis to identify timber species and trace their origins. This breakthrough technology ensured compliance with sustainability and legal standards and addressed the shortcomings of traditional paper-based certification systems, which were prone to manipulation. While the idea was revolutionary, the path to realising it was fraught with challenges. Darren and Kevin faced scepticism from stakeholders who were used to conventional methods, and establishing the technical infrastructure was daunting. Yet, Darren’s commitment to the belief that business could drive environmental sustainability pushed them forward.
Over time, the industry’s perception began to shift. Double Helix gained credibility, expanding operations to countries such as Indonesia, the US, and the UK. Collaborations with global organisations like the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) further cemented its reputation as a leader in its field.
Reflecting on his journey, Darren credits his time at NUS Business School for providing the critical skills that shaped his approach. The programme not only taught him the intricacies of business management but also cultivated a global perspective essential for navigating international markets and building partnerships. This perspective proved invaluable as Double Helix expanded and solidified its mission to safeguard forests and champion sustainable practices.
Today, Double Helix Tracking Technologies stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion and purpose converge. Darren’s early experiences exploring natural landscapes, paired with years of professional expertise and unwavering dedication, have driven a mission that continues to protect the world’s forests and promote ethical sourcing practices. What began as a simple appreciation for nature has blossomed into a career that proves that nurturing even the smallest seeds of passion can lead to transformative change.