John Bruton was an Irish prime minister (1994–1997) and an international business leader. He held a number of posts in the Irish government, including minister for finance; minister for industry and energy; minister for trade, commerce and tourism; and minister for the public service. During his term as prime minister, Bruton was deeply involved in the Northern Irish Peace Process leading up to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. He also served as the European Union ambassador to the United States from 2004 to 2009. Bruton was an adviser to Fair Observer.