Alison Ritchie is the Managing Director of Polar Ice Ltd, Ireland’s leading manufacturer and distributor of dry ice products. Since its establishment in 1996, Alison has led the company’s growth, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation in the industry.
A significant milestone in her journey was the 2022 joint venture with the SOL Group, a leading European supplier of technical and medical gases. This partnership has strengthened Polar Ice Ltd.’s market position, expanded its capabilities, and created new opportunities for growth.
Entrepreneurship has always been central to Alison’s career. In 2005, she co-founded Polar IceTech Ireland Ltd, a specialist provider of cryogenic cleaning solutions. Under her leadership, the business became a market leader before she successfully sold it in 2016.
With a strong background in business and finance, Alison holds a Business Degree from Dublin City University (DCU) and is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland (FCA). She was awarded first place in Ireland in the Professional 2 Strategic Corporate Finance exam, a distinction recognised by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA).
Throughout her career, Alison has received numerous accolades, including the Ulster Bank Business Achievers Award, WMB Entrepreneur of the Year, and the All-Star Business Award for Thought Leadership in Enterprise Development. She was also named Accountant of the Year, a particular career highlight.