Ian has spent over 30 years in the UK process industry, gaining a wealth of experience in research & development, manufacturing, pr & marketing, HR, training & development and corporate governance. 

Ian's knowledge and experience at the 'sharp end' of the process industry, together with his understanding and passion for skills development within the sector, provides him with a significant appreciation of the needs of employers for training & development. 

After graduating from the University of Salford with a degree in Biochemistry followed by a Doctorate based on research in enzymology, Ian began his career with Boots as Research Biochemist working on the development of new pharmaceutical compounds. Following this he transferred to BASF, holding a number of senior executive roles.

Further in his career Ian joined North East Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) as Business Development Manager, responsible for expanding the activities of the Cluster and later Aesica Pharmaceuticals as their Corporate Services Manager before joining the Skills Academy.