Sir Eric Paul McClintock (13 September 1918 – 27 March 2018) was an Australian public servant and businessman whose career bridged high-level government work and private sector leadership. Born in the rural town of Gulgong, New South Wales, he became known for contributions to trade policy, political communications and corporate governance over several decades.

Career in public service

McClintock spent a substantial part of his early career in federal public service roles focused on trade. He served as First Assistant Secretary in the Department of Trade from 1958 to 1961, a senior position in which he was involved in the development and administration of trade matters for the Australian government. Earlier he worked as a speechwriter for John McEwen, who served as Minister for Trade and later became Prime Minister; McClintock's work in political communications helped shape public presentations of trade policy during a formative period in Australia's postwar economy. For background on McEwen's political role see John McEwen.

Corporate leadership and business roles

After his public service career McClintock moved into the private sector and became a prominent corporate director. He is best known for serving as chairman of Woolworths Limited from 1980 until 1987, guiding the company through a period of change in Australian retail. His experience in both government and business gave him a perspective on regulation, commerce and corporate strategy that informed his board-level work.

Other activities and public engagement

Beyond government and retail, McClintock engaged with cultural and industry initiatives. He acted as New South Wales campaign chair for the Australian Prospectors & Miners' Hall of Fame, an organisation that has since become defunct. Throughout his later life he remained a visible figure in discussions on business, trade and civic affairs.

McClintock was a knight—styled Sir Eric McClintock—and lived to an advanced age, passing away in Sydney on 27 March 2018 at 99. His career is frequently noted as an example of the mid-20th-century pattern of movement between public service and private enterprise, and he is remembered for combining policy expertise with corporate stewardship.

Selected roles

  • First Assistant Secretary, Department of Trade (1958–1961)
  • Speechwriter for Minister for Trade John McEwen
  • Chairman, Woolworths Limited (1980–1987)
  • NSW campaign chair, Australian Prospectors & Miners' Hall of Fame