Owner puts people first

Jim Barker with his wife Bev. Photo/Supplied

James Barker has always believed business is first and foremost about people.

Mr Barker, known as Jim, has been appointed to the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the transport industry and philanthropy.

He said he was honoured to be selected.

"I have always been of the belief that first and foremost business is about people - and I have been lucky enough to work with many great people. It is because of these people, along with my wife and family, that the business is what it is today."

Mr Barker said from the beginning, the Jim Barker Group of Companies had been a family affair with his wife Bev and their three children, Sheryl, Peter and Maree, all involved in the business. "Our business family extends to all our staff and for one of my drivers to make the nomination for this award is so humbling and special and in keeping with how I have tried to run our companies.

"I would like to thank him for all the effort he put into nominating me - and all the people along the way who have supported us and helped us make the Barker Transport Group a success."

His daughter Sheryl Ellison said her family was proud of Mr Barker and his achievements, and were "extremely pleased" to see his contribution to the transport industry and community recognised.

Mr Barker established Otorohanga Transport in 1963 and had since expanded this business to become one of the biggest locally owned and operated freight transport companies in New Zealand. He has implemented a training programme to address a shortage of truck drivers. Mr Barker has supported numerous charities and community groups in Otorohanga and nationally.