Originally from Portsmouth UK, Ian now lives mostly in Portugal.  
Having worked as a Sailmaker and Loft Manager for Lucas, Diamond and North Sails he made the move to the America's Cup in 2000 working as Sail Loft Manager for Swiss team Alinghi. In 2010 he joined Italy's Luna Rossa challenge and then moved to the team in 2015 as Sailmaker and Loft Manager.