Ian is since 2018 an Associate Member of GSC and based in Durban, South Africa. He started his seagoing career with Safmarine in 1972 and sailed on general cargo vessels and tankers. He jointed the salvage tugs In 1977 and became a Master of the ETV's JOHN ROSS and WOLRAAD WOLTEMADE in 1995. He served in this position until 2005. During this period and when on leave, Ian conducted several salvage projects as a Salvage Master. After he resigned as Master from the ETV’s, he continued working as a Salvage Master / Project Manager until 2017.

Ian is one of the few in the industry holding an Extra Master, part A&B. He has been involved in a large number of salvage and wreck removal cases like the JOLLY ROBINO, CAPE AFRICA and SMART. Since 2019 he is a member of Lloyds SCR Panel.