DARREN KATZ

Darren Katz is a visionary retail innovator and the Chief Executive Officer of Excellerate Brand Management (EBM), bringing over 27 years of experience in transforming shopping centres into award-winning lifestyle destinations. Under his leadership, EBM has earned more than 300 local and international awards, positioning the agency as a global leader in retail brand innovation.

Katz is renowned for his strategic foresight and commitment to redefining the retail experience. EBM’s philosophy of 'being unsame' drives every initiative —a belief in crafting unique, single-minded propositions that disrupt conventional categories and deliver memorable, talk-worthy consumer journeys. This approach ensures no duplication, no imitation—only original, impactful brand experiences.

As CEO, Katz leads a multidisciplinary team focused on integrating marketing and non-GLA (gross lettable area) strategies across diverse retail environments. By developing curated brand strategies tailored to each property, EBM enhances operational efficiencies and unlocks new revenue streams for property owners. This includes leveraging mobile, social media, digital branding and analytics to create immersive and locally resonant campaigns.

Katz’s leadership has seen EBM’s work stand alongside—and often outperform—some of the world’s most recognisable brands. His commitment to strategic innovation has earned accolades from prestigious platforms such as MECSC and SAPOA. With recent expansions into Morocco and other international markets, Katz continues to push boundaries, delivering cutting-edge marketing solutions across South Africa and beyond.