Alec has a background as a solicitor and has significant governance and RMA experience at a high level. He has been involved with the RMA since its inception, he chaired the Environment Select Committee which oversaw the passage of the Act in 1991.

As an Environment Canterbury councillor and commissioner he worked on over 100 hearings as Chair of the Regulation Hearing Committee and since then sat on over 40 hearings as an accredited independent commissioner (with Chair endorsement).

He has substantial experience on larger water issues in various capacities including as a Commissioner, Board of Enquiry member, Special Tribunal  member and Independent Chair.