Ian is one of our most versatile tutors, with 20 years working in brewing and distilling internationally. Ian began in 2006 at Scottish & Newcastle-Berkshire Brewery in Reading, UK, as a Microbiologist, moving later to Stroud Brewery, in Gloucester as Head Brewer.

His career changed substantially in 2011 when he decided to move to Australia and enter distilling. He joined Starward Whisky Distillery in Melbourne, where he took on several production managerial roles and is currently Operations Manager/Master Distiller for The Gospel, a Rye Whiskey distillery in Melbourne.

Among his many achievements, Ian's involvement in a continuous improvement project led to a 12% increase in process efficiency at Starward. 

He holds a Bachelor Degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry from University of Sydney (2004). Since joining the IBD in 2003, Ian has achieved several CIBD qualifications (GCB, GCD, Dipl. Brew. Dipl. Distil, Master Distiller), in addition to mentoring others to achieve their own qualifications.

We are excited for such an accomplished industry professional and mentor as Ian to help guide candidates through their Diploma in Distilling as a TGL tutor.

Based outside Melbourne, Australia, Ian also likes to volunteer as a Scout Leader and plays the bagpipes with the City Of Melbourne Highland Pipe Band.