Innovator, broadcaster and founder of Animation Research

Overview

Sir Ian Taylor KNZM (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Pāhauwera) is one of New Zealand's most celebrated innovators. The founder of Dunedin-based Animation Research Ltd, he has spent more than three decades putting Aotearoa at the leading edge of computer graphics, real-time 3D and sports broadcasting, with work seen at the America's Cup, the PGA Tour and on networks worldwide.

Who is Sir Ian Taylor? Sir Ian founded Taylormade Productions in 1989 and Animation Research Ltd in 1990 in Dunedin. ARL has produced real-time graphics for the America's Cup, the PGA Tour, Formula 1, BBC and Sky and won a Sports Emmy in 2015. He was named NZ Innovator of the Year in 2019, Deloitte Top 200 Visionary Leader in 2020 and was knighted in 2021.

Career Highlights • Founder of Animation Research Ltd and Taylormade Productions • 2021 Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit • 2019 New Zealand Innovator of the Year • 2020 Deloitte Top 200 Visionary Leader of the Year • 2013 Outstanding Māori Business Leader of the Year • 2015 Sports Emmy Award winner for the America's Cup mobile app

Key Speaking Themes • Innovation, technology and what makes New Zealand world-class • Te ao Māori, identity and leadership in business • Building a global tech company from regional New Zealand • Tech for Good: technology in education, health and justice • Sport, broadcasting and storytelling

What Your Audience Will Gain Sir Ian shares the unlikely story of how a small Dunedin team became a world leader, with hard-won perspectives on innovation, resilience and responsibility. Audiences leave inspired and challenged in equal measure.

Ideal For • Innovation, technology and digital conferences • Leadership and strategy events • Māori business and indigenous leadership forums • Sport, broadcasting and media events • Universities, awards and gala dinners

Frequently Asked Questions...

What does Sir Ian Taylor speak about? Innovation, technology, leadership, te ao Māori in business, sport, broadcasting and Tech for Good.

What is Animation Research Ltd? Founded by Sir Ian in 1990, ARL is a Dunedin-based world leader in real-time 3D graphics for the America's Cup, the PGA Tour, Formula 1 and other major sports broadcasts.

When was Sir Ian Taylor knighted? He was made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2021 for services to broadcasting, business and community.

What awards has Sir Ian Taylor won? 2019 NZ Innovator of the Year, 2020 Deloitte Top 200 Visionary Leader, 2013 Outstanding Māori Business Leader and a 2015 Sports Emmy.

What is Tech for Good? An initiative led by Sir Ian developing technology tools for education, health and the justice system, including virtual learning environments for prison inmates.

Is Sir Ian Taylor available for keynotes and panels? Yes. Sir Ian is regularly booked as a keynote, panellist and MC at innovation, leadership and Māori business events.