Ian Taylor (1.85-90) has forged a distinctive career that spans art, luxury retail, advanced engineering and sustainable aviation, demonstrating how creative foundations can lead to unexpected and impactful paths. After Malvern, he studied art and design at Cheltenham College before completing a joint honours degree in Fine Art and History of Art at Goldsmiths. His first professional role, in the Egyptian Hall at Harrods, immersed him in the world of art, antiquities and luxury, followed by a management training programme that set the stage for a series of pivotal career moves.
Ian joined Smythson of Bond Street, where he became Royal Household Correspondent, and it was in this role that his career took a decisive turn. He was asked to establish the company’s first industrial engraving and printing facility in Wiltshire, introducing him to manufacturing and process-led problem solving and paving the way for further roles in print media and the automotive sector.
This expertise led him to Honda UK and later Williams Advanced Engineering, the technology consultancy arm of Williams Formula One, where he spent over eight years sourcing different technologies for projects ranging from electric vehicle batteries to medical equipment. He now works at Vertical Aerospace as Senior Commodity Manager: Technology Lead – Thermal Management Systems, contributing to the development of a pioneering electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed to transform urban transport.
Ian credits Malvern with offering opportunities and experiences that shaped his adaptability, curiosity and enduring love of travel and natural beauty.
He believes that Malvern gave him perspectives he might not otherwise have had, from expeditions in Iceland and art trips to Venice and Florence, to countless hours in the art centre and enduring friendships rooted in Cwm Llwch. These experiences fostered a lifelong love of art, travel, cultural history and the natural world.
Ian’s career shows how an open mind, a willingness to take risks and embracing new challenges can lead to a deeply rewarding and unexpected professional path.
Personal note: “I believe that what you go on to study at university does not define you or necessarily dictate your professional future. Your degree is just a starting point. Today’s job market is remarkably fluid, and many new skills can be mastered through hands on experience. Don’t be afraid to pivot or explore the less obvious paths – prioritise opportunities that offer cultural growth and diverse experiences, as these are often more rewarding than a salary alone.”