Dr Colin Harrison CBE CChem FRSC

Colin Harrison was a chemist by training and spent more than 30 years with ICI in in the chemical and advanced materials industry.   There   he worked in a variety of research, engineering, manufacturing and supply chain management roles both in the USA and Europe.   He retired from ICI as global Research and Manufacturing Director in 2007. 

Colin always had a special interest supporting the translation of the UK's superb science and technology skills into tangible social and economic benefits.   He led the Manufacturing and Technology stream of the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation and Growth Team and was a member of the Industrial Biotechnology Leadership Forum. Other roles included membership of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Chair of the Chemistry Innovation Knowledge Transfer Network and a Director of the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI).   The latter is a major component of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult and is the home of the National Industrial Biotechnology Facility, The National Biologics Manufacturing Centre and the recently announced National Formulation Centre.   

Colin was awarded a CBE for services to Technology in the 2010 New Year Honours. 

Colin was known for his self-deprecating wit, his outstanding collaborative leadership and his nurturing of new professionals.   He is remembered by so many for his positive contribution to their careers in chemistry.    

Outside of work, Colin was devoted to Ripon Cathedral where he used his skills for the benefit of the wider cathedral community. He was a Cathedral Canon, Chair of the Select Vestry and Chair of the Ripon Cathedral Development Campaign.   He was instrumental in raising many hundreds of thousands of pounds for renewing and developing the fabric of the Cathedral.    Colin also excelled in the Arts and at the age of 63 achieved a First Class BA (Hons) degree in Humanities with Art History and Classical Studies from the Open University.   At home, he was a passionate cook and a devoted family man.   

On January 14th 2019 Colin died peacefully at home following a short illness.   He is survived by his wife Janina and children Katharine and Jonathan.    He is terribly missed by his family and community.