Professor Darren Meister appointed Vice-Dean (Education) of Imperial Business School

A renowned expert in design thinking and innovation has been appointed to lead the education offer of Imperial Business School.

Professor Darren Meister will join Imperial as the new Vice-Dean (Education) in 2026 for a five-year term. He will succeed Professor Chris Tucci, who has served as Interim Vice-Dean (Education) since July 2025. He will also take up a position as a Professor of Teaching within Imperial Business School’s Department of Management & Entrepreneurship.

Professor Meister joins Imperial from the Ivey Business School, Western University in Canada, where he is currently Associate Dean, Programs. During his time at Ivey he previously served as Associate Dean for Faculty Development and as Director of the John M. Thompson Centre for Engineering Leadership & Innovation. 

"I look forward to leading an education strategy that cultivates creativity and agility, equipping students to integrate foundational management principles with advances in technology, economic frameworks, and the life sciences." Professor Darren Meister

Professor Meister said: "I look forward to leading an education strategy that cultivates creativity and agility, equipping students to integrate foundational management principles with advances in technology, economic frameworks, and the life sciences."

At Ivey, Professor Meister is currently teaching courses in design thinking to HBA, MBA and engineering students. He has previously taught courses in technology strategy, operations, change management, engineering leadership and IT management. 

His research focuses on design thinking, technology-based entrepreneurship and the role of technology in enhancing organisational effectiveness in relation to innovation. His research has been published in leading journals including Management Science and MIS Quarterly.

Professor Peter Todd, Dean of Imperial Business School said: “Darren brings a wealth of experience leading large undergraduate and postgraduate portfolios, covering programme delivery, recruitment, admissions and career management. He has a strong record of innovation in education, faculty development and interdisciplinary initiatives connecting business, engineering and technology, supported by major philanthropic partnerships. With his leadership experience, academic reputation and international outlook, he is the ideal person to lead our education strategy.” 

He continued: “I would like to thank Chris Tucci for his excellent leadership as Interim Vice-Dean (Education). He will continue in this role, and will ensure strong continuity for the School, during this transition.”