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Darwin Deason (born 1940) is an American billionaire businessman and political donor, primarily known for founding Affiliated Computer Services (ACS) in 1988. He built ACS into a global IT services and business process outsourcing company. Deason sold ACS to Xerox for $6.4 billion in 2010, becoming Xerox's largest individual shareholder. As of December 4, 2025, his net worth is estimated at $1.3 billion.
Darwin Deason was born in 1940 in Rogers, Arkansas. Growing up on a farm, he developed a strong work ethic. He graduated from high school and later worked at Gulf Oil. He then entered the data processing field, gaining experience that would later serve him well.
Deason's career took off when he founded Affiliated Computer Services (ACS) in 1988. ACS quickly expanded, handling computer and other business process services for clients across various sectors, including finance, education, and government. The company went public in 1994, further fueling its growth. In 2010, Xerox acquired ACS for $6.4 billion. Following the sale, Deason became Xerox's largest individual shareholder.
Deason's success can be attributed to several key strategies. He focused on outsourcing office work, making ACS one of the first companies to do so internationally. He demonstrated a keen ability to adapt to technological changes and expand into new markets. His leadership style and business acumen drove ACS to become a global leader in IT services.
Deason is actively involved in philanthropy through The Deason Foundation. The foundation has donated millions to various causes, including criminal justice reform, cybersecurity, and health and arts institutions.
Deason founded Affiliated Computer Services (ACS), a company focused on providing computer and business process services.
ACS went public, providing capital for expansion.
Xerox acquired ACS for $6.4 billion, making Deason Xerox's largest individual shareholder.
The Deason Foundation contributed to establish the Deason Family Criminal Justice Reform Center.
The Deason Foundation contributed to the creation of the Deason Institute for Cyber Security.
"I don't know of anyone who enjoys their success more than I do. There is little I do that I don't want to do, and little I don't do that I want to do."
Deason emphasizes hard work and expects the same from those around him.
Deason advises choosing a business you enjoy and are passionate about.
Deason sued Xerox to block a restructuring plan that would impact his ownership, which was later settled.
