Eric brings extensive political experience and networks along with farming expertise to the role of Chairman. Eric served as National Party MP between 1993 and 2014 as well as serving as Assistant Speaker of the House from 1998 to 2002 and Deputy Speaker of the House in 2011. After retiring from politics at the 2014 election, Eric was appointed a Companion of the Queen’s Service Order, for services as a Member of Parliament, in the 2015 New Year Honours. Eric is also a Justice of the Peace. He owns and manages Glenore Farms, a Southland-based farm business providing dairy support, running beef, deer along with a sheep operation selling sire rams. Eric is also serving a second term as regional councillor for Environment Southland.
