Loris Emerson Mather was the youngest son of Sir William Mather. Born in Higher Broughton in 1886, he entered the family firm of Mather & Platt in 1905, following his elder brother's death. He was appointed to the Board in 1908 and became Chairman in 1916, on his father's retirement. The company was known for its innovation and excellence under his leadership, and he worked to support the war effort during the Second World War. He was appointed North West Production Commissioner by the Minister of Production in 1942, in recognition of his company's efforts.

Loris Emerson Mather was active in youth work and education, becoming a Silver Wolf in the Scouting movement, and serving on the councils of the University of Manchester, UMIST, Chetham's Hospital School and the Manchester Grammar School.