Philip worked in banking for 19 years before moving into publishing and book selling. He was a co-owner of the Epworth Books shop for many years. Philip's father and maternal grandfather were Methodist ministers, so learning to lead worship and becoming a Methodist lay preacher were natural steps. He identifies as a progressive, liberal Christian. He and his wife Heather share a passion for music, are members of Festival Singers of Wellington and lead the English language congregation's Singing Group at their church. They live in Wellington, New Zealand and have three creative adult children.