Darren began his career in the late 1980s at Simeon Trading Group, a prominent Hong Kong-based commodities firm known for its dominance in crude oil and coal markets. At Simeon, he developed an acute ability to navigate the volatility of energy pricing, negotiating long-term supply contracts with industrial giants across Asia. His efforts expanded the firm’s presence into emerging Southeast Asian markets, where he played a key role in securing strategic supply lines during a period of significant industrial growth. As Simeon’s operations faltered under market liberalization pressures, Darren transitioned to Orient Pacific Commodities, a Shanghai-based firm that would later merge into a larger multinational entity. At Orient Pacific, Darren led the firm’s energy desk, specializing in securing vital Middle Eastern oil supplies for Asia. His ability to anticipate disruptions, particularly during the Gulf War, earned him industry-wide recognition for his foresight and strategic acumen.