Mike Barford graduated from Cambridge University in 1971 with a degree in Mathematics. After 3 years teaching at Christ's Hospital (CH), he trained as a Chartered Accountant becoming a partner in Deloitte in 1985. At Deloitte, Mike co-founded the Forensic Services Department, specialising in providing expert accounting advice to clients involved in disputes. After retiring in 2003, he was for many years Treasurer of the Surrey Cricket Board and a Trustee of Eastbourne College Inc., and is currently Treasurer of a Charitable Foundation which supports pupils at CH and Treasurer of the University Hockey Match Organising Committee.

Mike played hockey for Cambridge University, Sussex and Richmond HC, of which he is a former 1st XI captain and club President. He also played cricket for Cambridge University and retains an active role in several cricket clubs. Since 2006, he has led the volunteer team in the CH Museum, where he is Honorary Curator.