Duane Varan, CEO

Professional Overview

Duane Varan is an accomplished executive and industry leader with over 25 years of experience in media research and innovation. As the CEO of MediaScience® and HARK Connect, he leverages his deep expertise in audience analytics, consumer behavior, and emerging media technologies to drive transformative change within the media and advertising landscape.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

CEO, MediaScience® (2008-present)

• Oversees the strategic direction and operations of this leading media research firm, known for its pioneering work in biometric and neuroscientific analysis of media engagement and advertising effectiveness.

• Spearheads the development of innovative research methodologies and proprietary technologies to provide clients with actionable insights that inform their media planning and content creation.

• Under his leadership, MediaScience® has established a global reputation for excellence, serving a diverse client base that includes top-tier media companies, brands, and advertising agencies.

CEO, HARK Connect (2020-present)

• Leads this pioneering startup focused on developing cutting-edge voice technology solutions for the media and entertainment industries.

• Drives the company's strategic vision, product roadmap, and go-to-market strategies to capitalize on the rapidly evolving voice-based media landscape.

• Leverages his deep industry expertise to foster collaborations with leading media organizations and technology partners, positioning HARK Connect as a key player in the voice-enabled media revolution.

Career Progression

Professor, Audience Labs - Murdoch University (1997-2015)

• Served as a leading academic researcher in the field of audience analysis and media psychology, contributing to the field through groundbreaking studies and publications.

• Established the Audience Labs as a premier hub for media research, attracting funding and partnerships with industry leaders.

• Mentored and trained the next generation of media researchers, many of whom have gone on to hold influential roles in the industry.

Chief Research Officer, Disney Media & Advertising Lab (2008-2013)

• Directed the strategic research initiatives of Disney's in-house media and advertising research laboratory.

• Oversaw the development and implementation of innovative research methodologies to assess the impact of media content and advertising on consumer behavior.

• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure research insights informed Disney's content strategy, advertising decisions, and product development.

Assistant Professor, University of Hawaii (1993-1996)

• Began his academic career at the University of Hawaii, where he conducted research and taught courses in media psychology and audience analysis.

• Laid the foundation for his expertise in media research and consumer behavior, which would later define his successful career in the industry.

Academic Background

Duane Varan holds a Ph.D. in Media Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he specialized in the study of audience engagement and media effects. His extensive academic training and research expertise have been instrumental in shaping his approach to media innovation and business leadership.

Areas of Expertise

• Media research and audience analytics

• Biometric and neuroscientific analysis of media engagement

• Advertising effectiveness and consumer behavior

• Emerging media technologies, including voice-based solutions

• Strategic leadership and innovation in the media and advertising industries

Professional Impact

• Pioneered the use of biometric and neuroscientific methods in media research, establishing MediaScience® as a leading authority in this field.

• Spearheaded groundbreaking studies that have provided unprecedented insights into the psychology of media consumption and advertising effectiveness.

• Served as a sought-after industry expert, contributing to numerous conferences, publications, and industry initiatives.

• Mentored and inspired the next generation of media researchers and innovators through his academic work and industry leadership.

Conclusion

With his exceptional track record of innovation, research expertise, and strategic leadership, Duane Varan is poised to continue shaping the future of the media and advertising industries. As the CEO of MediaScience® and HARK Connect, he is at the forefront of technological advancements and consumer behavior research, driving transformative change and creating lasting value for his clients and the industry as a whole.