Goode joined the Malayan Civil Service in 1931, studying law in his spare time. In 1959, as part of transitional arrangements, he was made
Yang di-Pertuan Negara of the
State of Singapore from June to December, and
United Kingdom Commissioner. From 1960 to 1963 he was the last governor and Commander-in-Chief of North Borneo. During negotiations on the formation of
Malaysia Goode supported the idea of British governors remaining in North Borneo and
Sarawak for a transitional period, suggesting this would increase support for federation within the two territories. This was rejected by the Malayan government. Goode also criticised
Fuad Stephens, then leader of the
United National Kadazan Organisation political party, when Stephens voiced support for a 1963 federation date. ==Awards and honours==