Allen Darrah
Chief Information Officer at Spencer Fane LLP | Associate Faculty at
Columbia University | Technology Executive and Thought Leader
Specialties & Areas of Interest include:
- AI Ethics and Systemic Technology Risk
- Cybersecurity and Governance
- Technology-Driven Innovation
- Strategic Leadership and Communication
- Philosophy, Classics, and Poetry
Connect with Allen on LinkedIn
" I am honored to be a member of the Technology Executive Club's Board of
Advisors, where I can contribute to the ongoing dialogue on technology's role
in business and society, while learning from and mentoring other leaders in
the community."
Allen Darrah
R. Allen Darrah is a distinguished technology executive and educator with
over two decades of experience in IT operations, cybersecurity, and
technology-driven innovation. Currently, as the Chief Information Officer at Spencer Fane LLP, the fastest-growing law firm in the country, Allen leads transformative technology initiatives that enhance client service delivery and strengthen the firm's market position. His strategic leadership extends to overseeing digital transformation, AI ethics, and systemic technology risk, making him a recognized authority in these fields. Beyond his role at Spencer Fane, Allen is an Associate Faculty member at Columbia University, where he teaches courses that intersect technology and law, focusing on areas like privacy regulations, M&A cyber risks, and strategic vendor management.
He is also a public speaker on topics including cybersecurity, technology innovation, artificial intelligence, and technology career development. Allen is a member of the UK Royal Institute of International Affairs, aka Chatham House, and a former member of the World Economic Forum's cybersecurity thinktank.
Allen's career trajectory is a testament to the power of pivoting with purpose. Originally a philosophy major with plans to attend law school, he transitioned into technology while running his own business, a move that set the stage for his ascent from Help Desk roles to executive leadership. His recent talk, "From Help Desk to Boardroom: Climbing the Career Ladder with Effective Communication and Savvy Leadership," encapsulates his journey and the lessons he imparts to others looking to build a career in tech.
As a member of the Board of Advisors for the Technology Executives Club, Allen is committed to advancing the role of technology in business and governance, advocating for the inclusion of cybersecurity and technology experts on public boards, and mentoring the next generation of technology leaders. His expertise, combined with his philosophical insights, continues to shape the conversation on the ethical use of technology in our increasingly digital world.
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