John lives in Kilbirnie with wife Linda, and their two young children Rachel and Iain.

Born in 1961, John studied at Glengarnock Primary, and Garnock Academy before graduating from the University of Strathclyde in 1983. He has worked in IT since 1985 and currently works part-time as IT Manager.

First elected as local councillor for Kilbirnie North in 1999, he has recently been elected as one of the three councillors for Kilbirnie & Beith ward in the new council, and he has been chosen as a executive member with responsibility for Children's Services under the new system.

A founder member of the Radio City Association in 1998 he still serves as a director of the company. Outside work his interests include cycling, and watching the local football team.