Born December 9, 1963, Bolshoi Kamen city in the Primorye Territory.
Education
After graduating from high school, he enrolled at the Far Eastern Admiral Nevelskoi Higher Naval Engineers
School in Vladivostok and studied at its marine transport management faculty. He worked as a longshoreman and sailor in the port during his studies.
1985: Graduated from the Admiral Nevelskoi School with honours, enrolled at its post-graduate course, and worked as laboratory head at the marine transport economy and law department.
After completing his post-graduate course, Darkin worked as stevedore and shift supervisor of the first freight area at the Vladivostok merchant marine port.
1999: Graduated from the Far Eastern State Academy of Economics and Management and received a degree in Finance, Credit and Economics.
Experience
1989: Deputy Director for Organisation at DalLeasing Co.
1991: Established and headed the Russian Leasing enterprise until being elected Primorye Territory Governor. In its first years, the enterprise was engaged in ship-building and subsequently prioritised fishing.
On June 17, 2001, Darkin collected 40.2% of votes, or more than any other candidate, during gubernatorial elections in the Primorye Territory and was officially sworn in June 25, 2001.
On January 28, 2005, President Vladimir Putin submitted Darkin's candidacy for the post of Primorye Territory Governor to the Primorye Territorial Legislature which appointed him on February 4, 2005.
On February 4, 2010, the Primorye Territorial Legislature examined Darkin's candidacy, submitted by President Dmitry Medvedev, and appointed him governor for his third term.
Married, with two daughters.