Mark Casson

Professor Mark Casson is a Professor of Economics at the University of Reading and Director of the Centre for Institutions and Economic History. He holds roles as Co-Director of the Centre for International Business History and Member of the John H Dunning Centre for International Business and Henley Centre for Entrepreneurship. His expertise spans international business history, medieval economic history, entrepreneurship theory, and railway policy. Casson studied Economics at Bristol University, focusing on multinational corporations' societal impacts. He advises UK government on foreign investment and collaborated with UNCTAD on international subcontracting in developing countries.

His research integrates medieval economic practices with modern business theory, exemplified by his 2020 book *Business and Community in Medieval England*, which explores profit recycling into local communities. He serves on the UK Passenger Demand Forecasting Council, blending railway policy with academic work. His external appointments include roles in medieval economic analysis and transportation forecasting.

Key research themes include institutional factors in medieval productivity (e.g., mining economies), internalization theory in multinational enterprises, and compassionate capitalism's historical roots. His recent publications analyze railway policy evolution, global business complexity, and entrepreneurial dynamics. Casson's work bridges historical methodologies with contemporary economic challenges, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches.

His advisory roles and policy engagement reflect a commitment to applying academic insights to real-world issues. Despite the absence of formal awards listed, his contributions to economic history and international business theory are widely recognized in academic circles.