Richard Thorpe has a range of research interests which include: performance, remuneration, small business and entrepreneurship, management learning and development, and leadership. He has sought to develop these interests at all the institutions in which he has worked. His early industrial experience informed the way his ethos has developed. Common themes are: a strong commitment to process methodologies and a focus on action in all it’s forms; an interest in and commitment to the development of doctoral students and the development of capacity within the sector; a commitment to collaborative working on projects of mutual interest.