Speaking Engagements
& Design Workshops
Meet Dharma

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to blend in. Then I discovered design.

Dharma is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Contrast & Co., an award-winning brand strategy and communications agency determined to build the most strikingly different brand experiences anywhere. Founded in 2015 and featured as one of AdWeek’s 100 fastest-growing agencies, Dharma’s team at Contrast has designed revolutionary brands for everyone from global consulting powerhouses to hip-hop fashion icons to non-profits nestled deeply in the heart of the Himalayas.  

With over two decades of experience, Dharma is a seasoned creative leader who has consistently challenged conventions and uncovered untapped potential in branding and design. His career spans an impressive array of roles, including designer, developer, information architect, user experience lead, and Vice President + Creative Director for three of DC’s top brand and digital agencies. Across hundreds of projects, he has shaped both physical and digital experiences, elevated brands, and inspired teams with his endless passion and inventive spirit.  

Fueled by a deep belief in the transformative power of design, Dharma brings energy and optimism to every stage. His presentation style captivates audiences with stunning visuals and thought-provoking ideas. Drawing on his background and how it shapes his design approach, Dharma's presentations cover everything from creating uniquely differentiated brand experiences to the emerging trends reshaping the consumer experience landscape.

”Dharma has the best mind in the industry.”
Michelle Perry
board director, operating partner, investor
“Dharma is one of those guys that always sees the next level, the way things could be, a true optimist that has the talents to make his vision a reality for clients.”
Marc Caposino
CEO, fuselab creative
“Dharma is a language genius. The way he distills and translates things from discovery to the first draft is frankly extraordinary.”
Jewelyn Cosgrove
VP govt & PR | Melwood

Signature Talks

What makes you different is what makes you.

How to design strikingly different brand experiences that stand out in the great sea of similarity.

To truly differentiate, organizations must break free from the sea of similarity and create brands that are not only visually distinct but deeply purposeful. This presentation is designed to help you do exactly that—by uncovering what makes you and your organization unique and transforming that individuality into a powerful, resonant brand foundation.

Five consumer experience trends the legal industry can no longer afford to ignore.

From Pepperoni to Predictive Analytics: Transforming Legal Marketing with Lessons from Top Consumer Brands

What can the pizza industry teach legal marketers? How can Spotify’s predictive analytics inspire client communication strategies? Dharma Pachner explores how client expectations, shaped by brands like Netflix and Amazon, transcend industries. Learn actionable strategies to build legal brands that engage emotionally, simplify complexity, and inspire trust across every client touchpoint.

Foundations First: Designing brands that outlast trends.

Timeless brands aren't built on trends.

Chasing brand trends can leave organizations feeling scattered and short-lived. This session explores the four foundational principles for creating brands that outlast trends. Learn how to craft authentic messaging, make timeless design choices, and build a brand identity that remains relevant amid a competitive and evolving landscape.

Recent Speaker Engagements

Taking our brand of "strikingly different" on the road.
JPRO25 | Baltimore, MD
January 7, 2024
Strikingly Different by Design:
Building Nonprofit Brands with Purpose
Presentation & Workshop
LMA Mid-Atlantic Regional | Wash DC
January 7, 2024
Strikingly Different by Design:
Building Nonprofit Brands with Purpose
Presentation & Workshop
LMA Mid-Atlantic Regional | NYC
January 7, 2024
Strikingly Different by Design:
Building Nonprofit Brands with Purpose
Presentation & Workshop

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