Alun Cairns was first elected to the Assembly in 1999 for the South Wales West Region.

He had previously fought the Gower constituency in the 1997 general election and subsequently the Vale of Glamorgan in 2005.

Alun worked in Banking for 10 years in a range of roles, primarily business development and compliance, before being elected.  He has one son, Henri, and is married to Emma.

He has also completed a Masters in Business Administration. His interests range from business and the economy to Special Educational Needs.  Outside politics, he enjoys game shooting, running and cycling.

Following the 2007 Election, Alun became the Shadow Minister for Education before becoming the Opposition Chief Whip and Shadow Minister for Heritage & Industry last year.