Meet the Ex-Gymshark
Leader Behind BUILD+SHIP
I'm Mark Darling, former Head of Mobile Engineering at billion-dollar unicorn Gymshark. After years of seeing agencies overpromise and underdeliver, I started Build and Ship to work directly with clients who want things done properly.
Why We Started This
I've been building software for over 20 years, and I got really tired of seeing the same problems over and over: agencies that promise everything, charge a fortune, miss every deadline, and deliver something that barely works.
So I started Build and Ship to do things differently. No corporate bullshit, no mysterious "processes", no surprise costs. Just honest conversations about what you need, realistic timelines, and beautifully designed software that solves real problems.
We're not trying to be the biggest agency or work with everyone. We'd rather work with fewer clients and design and build cool stuff that works beautifully. Because at the end of the day, your success is what matters - not our fancy office or corporate awards.
Want to work with people who give a shit about your project? Let's talk.
How We Work
The stuff that matters when you're building software
No Bullshit, Ever
We tell you exactly what something will cost, how long it'll take, and what can go wrong. No surprises, no hidden fees, no corporate double-speak.
Build Things That Last
We'd rather spend extra time building something properly than rush through and leave you with a mess to maintain.
Solve Real Problems
Cool tech is fun, but we focus on what makes your business better. If there's a simpler solution, we'll tell you.
Give a Shit
We're not just building your project and disappearing. Your success matters to us because that's how we sleep well at night.
Who You're Working With
A boutique agency where you work directly with the founder and our handpicked team of the best designers, engineers and creatives in the game
Mark Darling
Founder & Technical Lead (Ex-Head of Engineering, Gymshark)
I spent years as Head of Engineering at Gymshark (you know, the billion-dollar fitness brand), building the tech that helped them scale from startup to unicorn. I've seen what works at scale and what breaks under pressure.
Build and Ship is a boutique design and development agency - which means when you work with us, I'm personally leading your project. No junior developers learning on your time, no offshore teams you'll never meet. Just me working alongside our carefully chosen team of the best designers, developers and creatives in the game.
We tailor everything to your budget and timeline. Whether you need a small team for a focused project or a larger crew for something ambitious, you get the right people without the agency overhead and politics.
Want to Work With People Who Care?
Tell us what you're trying to build. I'll be straight with you about what's possible, what it'll cost, and whether we're the right fit. No sales bullshit, just an honest conversation.