Jan Hodel-Keane academic background includes a PhD in Chemical Engineering focused on distillation modelling in gin distillation, a Master’s in Brewing and Distilling as well as a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering.  

As Principal Consultant and founder of JR Unity Ltd, Jan advises distilleries on process optimization, new product development, and technical innovation across all stages of spirit production. Previously, as Product Development Lead at Pilz Global Distillery Automation, he designed advanced manufacturing solutions that improved efficiency and spirit quality, with a strong focus on cask maturation. As R&D Manager at West Cork Distillers, he led yield improvements, fermentation enhancements, and cask management innovations—reducing process variability and increasing operational performance.

I began my brewing career by volunteering and eventually occasionally working for Trouble Brewing a fantastic Irish craft brewery. 

I continue to work in the brewing & distilling industry which I’ve now been apart of for 9+ years.

In my career so far, I’ve worked in production, quality, NPD & technical support roles with a focus on process optimisation.

I’ve had the privilege to work across the world on some very exciting process improvement projects & I never miss an opportunity to visit a brewery or distillery no matter how small or large!