Martin Ryan
Design Lecturer and Innovator
Martin is a lecturer in Product Design at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD), a multi-award winning designer, entrepreneur and co-founder of Think Actionable. In 2005 Martin invented and patented the world’s first cantilevered saddle – A revolutionary equestrian saddle which he conceived and developed to improve performance and comfort for horse and rider. On launch, the saddle established a customer base in 20 countries and successfully introduced a new paradigm to equestrian sports. In 2020 Martin entered a patent licensing deal with Stubben, a global leader in equestrian sports equipment for over 130 years.
Today, Martin actively collaborates with the HSE Spark Innovation Network, leading on several design-led projects across various healthcare settings. He has co-authored “ARRIVE,” a seminal book on design strategy and innovation, and advises on embedding innovation capabilities, building market insight, and delivering breakthrough innovations in products and services. Martin’s work in design has earned him numerous awards, including the JEC World Innovation Award (Paris), the Dyson Design Award and an IDI (Institute of Designers Ireland) Award.