Meet the Team

Key contacts at PRA World

Driven by science, powered by people

At PRA World, we’re proud to have a diverse team of industry-leading experts at the helm, bringing with them a unique combination of skillsets, experience and knowledge which spans the entire spectrum of paint & surface coatings research and testing. With a wealth of market and technical expertise at their fingertips, our specialist team are dedicated to ensuring that our clients and members receive an unparalleled level of personalised service. We’re here to help you find the best solutions for your business, whether it’s assisting you with testing needs or providing technical support.

Ian Hay

Managing Director

As the Managing Director of PRA, Ian is responsible for implementing corporate strategy, creating growth across the business, and delivering world-class services to our members. Ian has worked with PRA since 2008 as European Business Development Manager and Technical Manager before becoming Managing Director in 2016.

Andrew Jones

Director of Operations

With global expertise in project management, service delivery, and operational management across the technology and professional services sectors, Andrew joined PRA as Director of Operations in 2020. Andrew oversees all aspects of company strategy and operational control.

Dr Ben Naden

Senior Research Scientist

Joining PRA in 2009, Ben is a Senior Research Scientist with an extensive background in chemistry and materials-based solutions for product and process development. Ben works with PRA clients and members in new product development, paint & coatings research & development, concept identification, technical sales, project management, and practical project delivery.

Dr Laura Pilon

Senior Scientist & Quality Manager

Laura is an experienced senior chemist skilled in synthetic chemistry, research & development, polymer characterisation, and paint & coatings formulation and testing. With qualifications in chemistry, polymer chemistry, and materials science, Laura joined PRA in 2016 as a Senior Polymer Chemist, and is now a Senior Scientist & ISO 17025 Quality Manager.

David Corrigan MSc

Senior Lab Technician

David has worked with PRA since 2013, organising our Testing Services Department as a Senior Lab Technician. With extensive experience in quality assurance and testing, David provides analytical laboratory and development project support to our clients and members, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services.

Dr Rachel Atkinson

Technologist

Rachel joined PRA in 2020 and works within our laboratory as a Technologist. Prior to joining PRA, she carried out a PhD investigating the potential of copolymer materials as renewably sourced thermoplastic elastomers. She has published several papers on this topic in leading peer-reviewed journals.

Josh Evans

Coatings Technologist

As a Paint Coatings Technologist, Josh works within the PRA laboratory to perform product testing, research & development. He is able to utilise his skills and expertise in paint coatings technology to solve problems for customers and assist them in meeting their regulatory requirements.

Dale Pollard

Business Development Manager

Joining PRA in 2014 as an Internal Consultant before leading our Internal Sales Team in 2015, Dale is an experienced Business Development Manager who works closely with our clients and members to develop new business opportunities, as well as supporting existing clients with their needs.

Begin a new journey at the heart of surface coatings innovation

If you’re interested in joining us on our journey, browse our current opportunities on the PRA careers page.

Join the PRA World team

Ready to take the next step in your career?

We believe that with each unique perspective comes new insight into the field, so we are always looking for new minds to add to our expert team. With a range of careers, from hands-on roles as an independent product tester, or research-focused roles as part of our market intelligence team, there’s a place for everybody at PRA.