Doug Barton

As Director of the UWEBC, Doug Barton provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for this premier university-industry partnership involving more than 80 companies across diverse industries. Doug manages UWEBC staff, including practice directors and shared-services teams in event and member services, marketing, communications, and sales. He ensures the high-quality delivery and continuous improvement of UWEBC’s offerings, including peer-to-peer learning forums and advisory services designed to advance thought leadership, innovative business strategies, and emerging technologies.

Doug plays a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing relationships with member companies. He coordinates strategic initiatives aimed at sustainable growth and enhanced UW impact on Wisconsin industry under the Wisconsin Idea. Additionally, he leads the UWEBC Advisory Board and collaborates closely with industry and corporate relations professionals and executive and professional development programs across the UW-Madison campus.

With over 30 years of experience, Doug brings extensive expertise from mission-driven and values-rich organizations, including senior leadership roles at UBIX.AI and IBM. He is an accomplished speaker, having presented globally on design thinking, entrepreneurship, disruptive technology, AI, and innovation.

Doug earned his BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.