Don’t Panic Labs Co-Founder Doug Durham to Step Back from Day-to-Day Operations
Don’t Panic Labs, a Nebraska-based software product development and innovation company, today announced that co-founder and co-owner Doug Durham is stepping back from day-to-day operations effective October 31, 2025. Durham will continue to serve as Managing Partner Emeritus, remaining involved as an advisor and providing ongoing strategic guidance.
In 2010, Doug Durham co-founded Don’t Panic Labs as the software development arm of the Nebraska Global software investment fund. Under his leadership, Don’t Panic Labs launched multiple successful software ventures and fostered a culture of innovation and mentorship. In 2022, Durham led the buyout of Nebraska Global’s interest in the company.
Durham’s passion for solving problems through software and his commitment to sound engineering principles have been integral to the company’s success.
“Stepping back from our day-to-day operations is a natural next step in my journey,” said Durham. “I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished, and I’m excited for the future of Don’t Panic Labs. This company has always been about innovation and collaboration, and I’ll continue to support our team in this new capacity.”
As Durham steps back, the company’s leadership team, formed as part of the 2022 buyout, steps into new roles:
- Bill Udell has been promoted to Managing Partner while continuing as Chief Operating Officer
- Brian Zimmer has been named Chief Strategy Officer in addition to his responsibilities as Chief Product Officer
- Lori McCarthy has been promoted to Chief Delivery Officer
- Chad Michel has been elevated to Chief Technology Officer
- Andy Unterseher has been promoted to Chief Engineer
“We have an amazing team at Don’t Panic Labs, thanks to Doug’s leadership and the culture he’s built over the years,” said Udell. “His legacy of innovation and engineering discipline has laid a foundation that positions us for even greater success. The opportunities ahead for Don’t Panic Labs are tremendous, and I’m excited for what the future has in store.”
