about dark star

At Dark Star, our vision begins with you. Every project is a partnership, and your success is our success. Whether it’s rolling out a groundbreaking product, streamlining operations, navigating a divestiture, or expanding market reach, we bring the expertise, connections, and dedication to make it happen. With a collaborative and hands-on approach, we work tirelessly to ensure your business shines, delivering tailored solutions that drive growth, innovation, and long-term value.

our mission

We are proud partners to manufacturers, dedicated to developing and scaling businesses that prioritize innovation and safety. Our mission is to create a safer world for construction professionals and the traveling public while fostering sustainable growth and success for our clients. We are committed to clear communication, collaborative partnerships, and delivering value that benefits our employees, customers, and communities alike. Through our work, we strive to make a meaningful impact by ensuring safety, supporting progress, and investing in a brighter future.

company history

Dark Star began as an advisory firm focused on supporting small businesses, providing expert guidance to help them navigate challenges and achieve their goals. In 2023, we expanded our scope to include business development, sales, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and product rollout services, reflecting our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our clients.

Today, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including strategic planning, executive leadership, digital transformation, sales management, financial solutions, and more. Our growth reflects our dedication to innovation, collaboration, and creating value for the businesses and communities we serve.

Joseph Ford, Founder

Joseph Ford, the founder of Dark Star Management, LLC, brings over 25 years of business experience and more than 15 years as an executive leader. With a specialized focus on products and services for transportation infrastructure, he has dedicated over two decades to driving innovation and safety in the industry.

As a certified design thinker, Mr. Ford is passionate about identifying new opportunities to help his clients succeed. His extensive career includes leadership roles such as CEO of Work Area Protection Corp., Director and Chief Operating Officer at Hill & Smith Inc., and President of NESL Traffic Safety Division, Protection Services Inc. (PSI), and Total Contractor Supply (TCS).

Joseph Ford’s vision, expertise, and commitment to excellence serve as the foundation for Dark Star’s mission to deliver impactful solutions for businesses and communities.