Folayan becomes IChemE president
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) has welcomed Dr Ollie Folayan as its 85th president, to succeed professor Raffaella Ocone.
Currently head of process engineering at Costain, Folayan brings more than 20 years' experience spanning both traditional energy industries and emerging low-carbon technologies, including hydrogen and carbon capture.
He takes on the role at a time when chemical engineers are playing a central role in addressing challenges around decarbonisation, advanced manufacturing and the adoption of new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Dr Folayan said his presidency would focus on helping the profession adapt to rapid industrial and technological change while reinforcing the importance of chemical engineering to the energy transition.
He described the route to net zero as a "patchwork rug" of solutions including emissions reduction, process efficiency, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.
"Chemical engineers possess an extraordinary ability to affect the lives of others, and with that comes a responsibility to ensure innovation is guided by societal and ethical awareness," he said.
Alongside his engineering career, Folayan is widely recognised for his work promoting diversity and inclusion within the profession. He co-founded the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers (AFBE-UK) and was awarded an MBE in 2023 for services to diversity and inclusion in engineering.
Yvonne Baker OBE, chief executive of IChemE, said Folayan's experience across both established and emerging sectors would be valuable at a significant time for the profession.
"Dr Folayan brings extensive experience across both traditional energy sectors and emerging low-carbon technologies, alongside a strong commitment to inclusion, professional development and the future of engineering," she said.
Folayan’s predecessor Ocone’s presidential term focused on strengthening the role of chemical engineering in addressing societal challenges while promoting ethics, inclusion and public trust.
Following the handover, Ocone will continue to support the institution as immediate past president.
"It has been a privilege to serve as president during a period of significant change for both the profession and wider society," she said.
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