Ian Harding has worked within the craft industry for over 30 years and comes from a family with generations of handworkers and skilled craftspeople. As the present custodian of Herbert Johnson’s military and ceremonial headwear, he is invested in the historical significance and importance of headwear, attention to detail, and the precious handcrafts of heritage headwear.

Ian is the Master Hatter for BBC’s The Repair Shop show and the Herbert Johnson Traditional and Military range, one of Britain’s most prestigious and historic hatting firms, established in London. Herbert Johnson’s military workshop is situated in Mayfair, central London, conveniently close to regimental clubs, from where Ian and his team provide bespoke headwear, repairs, re-blocking, and re-ranking services to officers throughout their military careers.

Herbert Johnson supplies royalty, nobility, and dignitaries with hats of office, and also produces historically accurate hats for film, theatre, and documentaries — with notable examples including The Charge of the Light Brigade and Dad’s Army. Herbert Johnson is today the official hatter to nearly ninety percent of British Army regiments, alongside units in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Royal Air Force.

Ian’s inclusion on the Walpole 2026 Power List celebrates his 30-year career, recognising his dedication to craft, leadership in military and traditional headwear, and his enduring influence on British luxury.