Five minutes with Stephen Robinson

This week, we're thrilled to share 5 minutes with Stephen Robinson , the Biomedical Product Manager at Air Products - one of this year's exhibitors. Stephen is a key figure at Air Products, a global leader in the industrial, energy, technology, and healthcare sectors. He manages a diverse range of products, including atmospheric and specialty gases, advanced materials, and modern equipment. Meet the Air Products team this October at Lab Innovations!

Ready, set, share!

Can you give us an insight into your career path and how you ended up working within the lab industry?

I have a strong background in Chemistry, with extensive experience spanning over 27 years at Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in Cheshire. During my time at ICI, I held various technical and sales roles, managing a diverse portfolio of products and working with international markets across Europe, North and South America, the Indian Subcontinent, Asia Pacific, and Australasia. After relocating to Scotland, I served as a Sales Specialist for Brenntag, focusing on chemicals and gases throughout the region. Seventeen years ago, I joined Air Products as the Biomedical Product Manager for the UK & Ireland, where I specialise in cryogenic gases and equipment. I drive business growth, provide technical support, and collaborate with multiple teams ensuring that our products and services meet the needs of our customers. I also train clients and internal teams on the safe use of our products, reinforcing our role as a trusted partner in the Life Sciences sector.

What is something that keeps you motivated within the industry or what influences your decisions on how you work?

The dynamic nature of the Life Sciences market is a constant source of motivation for me. With groundbreaking developments emerging regularly, the industry remains both challenging and exciting. This ever-changing landscape inspires me to stay informed, continuously bringing innovative solutions to the market. What drives my work is not just the opportunity to sell a product, but the ability to provide valuable advice and guidance. I believe our role goes beyond transactions; it’s about partnering with our customers to deliver tailored solutions that truly meet their needs and help them achieve their goals. This commitment to making a meaningful impact is what fuels my passion for the industry.

Where do you see either you or the future of the lab industry going?

The future of the lab industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and efficiency. Customers are prioritising the reduction of their carbon footprint and enhancing their environmental credentials. This shift goes hand-in-hand with the ongoing need to minimise costs while maintaining the highest standards of safety and sample integrity. At Air Products, we see ourselves at the forefront of this evolution. We are committed to collaborating closely with our customers to develop and implement solutions that meet these demands. Our approach involves innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and tailored services that not only support green initiatives but also drive operational excellence across the industry.

Thank you for your five minutes, Stephen!