ION Science reveals leadership shift as precursor to growth

12 Mar, 2025
Newsdesk
ION Science Ltd, a Cambridge-based global leader in photoionisation detection (PID) technology, has reshuffled its leadership team as it steps up its push for fresh growth and innovation.
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Jason Evans, Steve Newcomb, Mike Hawes, Garfay Liu and Nicola Howard. Credit – ION Science.

Experienced executive Mike Hawes has been appointed Managing Director while Duncan Johns, who has steered the business since 1999, moves into the role of Director of Innovation.

ION Science is part of Hive Technologies Group Ltd, a dynamic Cambridge-based but broadly influential group encompassing Analox, Shawcity and ION Science.

Under Duncan John’s leadership, ION Science has strengthened its market position and significantly expanded its research, development and manufacturing capabilities. A pivotal part of this growth has been the development of The Hive and The Hive Technology Centre (HTC) – state-of-the-art facilities designed to drive future technological advancements.

To differentiate its instrumentation division from its sensing technology solutions, ION Science recently launched the ION SENSE sub-brand, reinforcing its commitment to innovation across both product categories.

Johns remains Hive Technologies Group CEO while his transition to Director of Innovation at ION Science reflects his commitment to pioneering new technologies and enhancing ION Science’s position as the global leader in PID detection solutions.

His vision has been instrumental in shaping the company’s trajectory and in this new role, he will focus on steering the innovation roadmap to ensure ION Science remains at the forefront of the industry.

Mike Hawes brings a wealth of experience and a deep alignment with the company’s core values and business principles of innovation, quality, and customer focus.

Mike Hawes (left) with Duncan Johns. Credit – ION Science.

Johns said of the transition: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved at ION Science over the past 25 years. The company has grown significantly, and our commitment to innovation has never been stronger.

“Moving into this new role allows me to dedicate my focus to advancing our technology and ensuring we remain the market leader in PID and sensing technologies. I have every confidence in Mike’s leadership and look forward to supporting the next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Hawes added: “It is an honour to step into the role of Managing Director at ION Science Ltd. The company’s dedication to innovation and excellence is truly inspiring, and I am excited to build upon the incredible work led by Duncan and the team.

“ION Science has a strong reputation in the industry, and I look forward to driving its continued success alongside our talented workforce.”