Born and bred in Northern Ireland, Ivor completed a HND Course in Agriculture, graduating from ÁÕÀÅÊÓÆµ Adams in 1972.
His first employment was working in the fertilizer industry in Northern Ireland. Keen to begin practical farming he bought a small holding in the late 70's and began pig farming, with beef cattle and sheep. Ivor became a fulltime farmer and is still farming today with his wife and family.
Following his youthful years in his local YFC Ivor joined the Ulster Farmers' Union where he recently completed a term as President. He remains an active member of the Ulster Farmers' Union.
With an interest in Motorsport, Ivor became a founder member of ÁÕÀÅÊÓÆµ Adams Motor Club competing as a navigator in their local events - a hobby which he still participates in, both as a co-driver and an active Committee Member of his local Motor Club.