John has had a distinguished career in the chemical industry holding a range of executive management positions. John was previously Chairman of the Whitehaven Development Company (WDC) – a public/private partnership set up to spearhead the regeneration of the harbour and town.

John led the establishment of the company and the setting of its vision. The work was successfully completed over a 10 year period, transforming the environment of the town and winning a host of regeneration awards. John was awarded the OBE in January 1995 for services to industry in West Cumbria.