Ian grew up in small business, working on his grandmother’s market stall throughout his childhood. At the age of 7, he read “Losing My Virginity”, the first autobiography of Sir Richard Branson and was inspired by Richard’s attitude toward life; that barriers to anything are a mere problem to be solved. Ian views the world around him through the lens of commerce and deeply understands people, their emotions and behaviours. It is these skills that led him to excel as an economist, working in central banking & economic development during and in the aftermath of the global financial crisis.

His own entrepreneurial adventures began shortly after graduation and have seen him start, grow and exit from a succession of businesses. These experiences crystallised his views of the value of small businesses and their owners to the economy and thus, the way in which they should be supported. It was almost inevitable then, that Ian jumped at the chance of playing a central role in the creation of what was to become the U.K.’s largest and most revered business support organisation, an organisation whose creation story was featured in the second autobiography of Sir Richard Branson. Virgin StartUp went on to support thousands of entrepreneurs and small businesses, from all walks of life, through the delivery of programs and funding opportunities.

Having seen the impact of providing the right support, at the right moment, in helping people, businesses and communities to flourish, Ian then set about tackling barriers in other areas. Rainbow Bridge Education now helps millions of children across the world to learn to read, while Future Leaders Network, the U.K.’s leading youth organisation, helps young people forge their own path through the delivery of its leadership development programs, professional development opportunities and networking.