Richard took a degree in Electronic Engineering at the University of Southampton and on passing worked in various industry sectors; primarily working on the design and development of equipment for military and industrial applications.

On joining the Civil Service worked in the Export Control Organisation on technical assessments later moving into the Technical Regulation area working as a technical adviser to policy development in the area of gas appliance and electrical equipment safety. Currently he is heading up the section with policy lead for safety of electrical equipment, gas appliances, radio & telecommunications terminating equipment and Recreational Craft (boats). Currently the revision of both the Gas Appliances Directive and the Recreational Craft Directive are occupying most of his time.