Ryan was born and raised in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada. He is a graduate of the university of New Brunswick. Ryan started his career with a Government in New Brunswick in 2002 and has held numerous positions in numerous departments before becoming the deputy minister of education, including being the deputy minister of local government, and deputy minister of environment.

On a personal note, Ryan and his family, including his two daughters live in New, Maryland, and when he’s not at work, he can be found at the cross country track meet, the ringette game (similar to hockey) where he coaches his daughters, he can also be found occasionally reffing ice hockey, or on the golf course.