Dr. Tony Ryan: A Journey through Chemistry and Innovation
Current Role (2016 – Present): Independent Consultant and Technical Director
Dr. Tony Ryan, a Chartered Chemist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, has been donning the hat of an Independent Consultant and Technical Director since 2016. Currently, he serves as the Technical Director of Simply Breathe Ltd., a company at the forefront of designing and manufacturing air-based products utilizing activated carbon. Additionally, he wears the director's cap at Stoicheiometry Ltd., a consultancy specializing in providing advice to the chemical and related industries, particularly in the activated carbon space.
Tony's Story
Over the past eight years, Tony has been a globetrotter, lending his expertise to various projects. From being a technical adviser in Finland for a major review of the activated carbon industry to assisting a legal organization in a patent litigation defence, he has been a senior adviser for private equity due diligence and securing positions under the REACH regulation in Europe. His portfolio also includes conducting feasibility studies on using waste agricultural materials for activated carbon manufacture and advising start-ups on utilizing by-products for the same purpose.
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Head of R&D at Calgon Carbon Corporation (2004 - 2016)
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Prior to his current venture, Tony held the position of Head of R&D (Europe) at Calgon Carbon Corporation for over a decade. In this role, he formulated and implemented strategic R&D objectives, managed the company's patents portfolio, and played a crucial role in incorporating legislative changes. His influence extended to the military respirator business, where he drove the substitution of environmentally acceptable alternatives. Dr. Ryan also spearheaded the commercialization of activated carbon in new applications and supported a spin-off company for competitive advantage.
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Other Roles and Accomplishments:
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Technical & Operations Manager at Waterlink Sutcliffe Carbons (2003 – 2004): Dr. Ryan managed R&D, Quality Control, Analytical, and Operations, conceptualizing a bespoke activated carbon pre-treatment system resulting in substantial sales.
Technical Manager at Sutcliffe Speakman Limited (1999 – 2003): Oversaw R&D and analytical functions, successfully replacing chromium(VI) impregnated carbon products and filing worldwide patents for adsorption applications.
Business Excellence Manager at ICI Chemicals & Polymers (1997 – 1999): Managed an internal consultancy practice, led business excellence initiatives, and provided advice for submissions and awards.
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Various Roles at ICI (1991 – 1996, 1996 – 1997, 1985 – 1991, 1981 – 1985): From Science Leader to Data Manager, Dr. Ryan contributed significantly to research, patents, and business strategies.
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Education and Qualifications:
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Tony holds a Ph.D. from the University of Liverpool and a B.Sc. (Hons.) in chemistry. His journey began at ICI Mond Division, at the tender age of 16, where he provided analytical support.
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Publications and Recognitions:
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With over a hundred publications, including a book, and numerous presentations at conferences worldwide, Tony has made a mark in the fields of activated carbon, catalysis, industrial chemistry, Quality Management, and Health & Safety. His contributions to science and innovation have been acknowledged with the title of Chartered Chemist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry since 1997.