ABOUT DEREK
PROFILE
Derek Arden didn't learn negotiation from books. He learned it the way most successful people do - by doing it. Thousands of times. In boardrooms, across negotiating tables, and in high pressure situations where the outcome mattered.
Over four decades, he has negotiated contracts worth billions, guided executives through career defining conversations, and helped sales teams transform their approach to deals. He knows what works because he has tested it. Repeatedly. In the real world.
Today, Derek shares what he has learned with business leaders who want practical skills, not theoretical frameworks. His programmes are built on one principle: negotiation is a skill that can be learned and improved at any stage of your career.
PHILOSOPHY
The best negotiation techniques are the ones people actually use. Not complex frameworks they forget the moment they leave the room. Not academic theories that sound good but don't translate to real conversations.
Preparation before the conversation. Clarity about what you want. Understanding what the other side needs. Knowing when to push and when to walk away.
This isn't about manipulation or aggressive tactics. It's about creating outcomes that work for everyone involved - while protecting your interests. The best negotiations leave both parties feeling they have achieved something valuable.
Social Profile
32 countries
spoken in worldwide
10 books
published + audio versions
250+ podcasts
450+ weekly briefings
1,300+ YouTube followers
420k views • 360 videos
4M+ TikTok views
viral negotiation content
6,000+ LinkedIn followers
professional network
7,000+ newsletter subscribers
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EXPERIENCE
Board level negotiations, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic partnerships.
B2B sales, contract negotiations, and complex deal structuring.
Vendor management, supplier negotiations, and cost reduction.
Executive coaching, team development, and career defining conversations.
#1 UK Speaker, Professional Speaking Association.
Trained in advanced negotiation methodology at Harvard Business School. Derek has taught at 8 different business schools.
Published author of multiple books on negotiation, persuasion, and presentation.
Has worked with FTSE 100 firms, ambitious scale-ups, public sector organisations, and not for profits.
WORK WITH DEREK
Get in touch to explore how Derek can help.
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