“Ian’s impact is felt across the organisation — ensuring that every machine, and every patient it supports, is in the best possible hands.”
From a young age, Ian had a fascination with taking things apart and putting them back together — whether it was radios, bicycles, or early computer systems. It was no surprise that he would eventually pursue a career in a technical field. What few could have predicted, however, was how his work — and his passion — would go on to improve the lives of thousands of people across the UK and Ireland.
The kidney care industry relies heavily on technology. Without expert technical support, dialysis would not be possible, which would leave more than 30,000 people in the UK without essential care. This is where Fresenius Medical Care UK & I’s (FME) Technical Operations team steps in, ensuring dialysis equipment performs at its best and delivers vital care to those who need it most.
Ian Wilde leads this critical work, as FME’s Technical Operations Lead for the UK and Ireland.
Ian joined Fresenius Medical Care in 2022 as a Regional Technical Services Manager and quickly progressed into his current leadership role. With more than 25 years of experience in the NHS, rising from Trainee Technician to Technical Service Manager, he brought a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to renal care. His knowledge and dedication have been instrumental in expanding Fresenius Medical Care’s Technical Operations across the UK and Ireland.
It was during his time in medical engineering within the NHS that Ian first discovered his passion for renal care. When a role in the technical side of the field became available, he volunteered for it and quickly found it to be the perfect fit. The role offered work that was technically fascinating, intellectually challenging, and personally rewarding, which by 1997, confirmed for Ian that his future lay in renal care.
Over the years, Ian developed a deep appreciation for the intricacy of dialysis machinery. With its sophisticated combination of hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, and IT, each day brought a new technical challenge. At the same time, the patient-facing aspect of the work became profoundly meaningful. Seeing patients regularly as part of their dialysis treatment allowed Ian to build strong, supportive relationships. Being able to support them through their journeys with kidney disease became one of the most rewarding parts of his career.
When repairs or servicing were needed, Ian carried them out safely in the workshop — a controlled environment where he could open up the machines and explore the electronics inside, echoing the curiosity of his childhood. At other times, the role required bedside work, where his clinical skills and deep knowledge of the machines were invaluable. Understanding not only the inner workings but also how to optimise performance for the best patient treatment, Ian acted as the vital link between nurse and machine, ensuring everything functioned smoothly while providing support to both patients and clinical teams.
Over time, Ian's role has grown to encompass not just direct patient care and technical expertise but also helping teams make dialysis more efficient and sustainable. For Ian, supporting teams in applying tools thoughtfully is a natural extension of his commitment to delivering the best care possible while being mindful of environmental impact.
The combination of technical expertise and meaningful patient impact has made renal care a uniquely rewarding field. Ian encourages anyone interested in technology to consider it as a career. With so many people affected by kidney-related illnesses, the profession blends technical skill with a deeply human mission.
Ian’s dedication and passion for renal care have defined his career. His expertise and leadership continue to drive Fresenius Medical Care’s Technical Operations forward, and his impact is felt across the organisation — ensuring that every machine, and every patient it supports, is in the best possible hands.