About
Mark Gilman is Professor of Economics at the University of Derby, affiliated with the College of Business, Law and Social Sciences within the Business Engagement & Employability department. He serves as a key contributor to the University of Derby Regional Economic Observatory, which builds evidence bases for economic and social policy deliberations. With over 40 years of combined experience in industry and academia, his career spans engineering practice followed by extensive academic work focused on small business growth and human resource management.
Professor Gilman's educational background includes a PhD in Industrial and Business Studies from the University of Warwick, an MA in Industrial Relations from the same institution, and a BA (Hons) in Economics/Industrial Studies from the University of Leeds. His academic journey began after 18 years working in engineering, making him a mature student when he entered higher education in the 1990s.
His primary research interests center around understanding SME performance and growth dynamics, with particular focus on developing practical applications from academic research. He has created the multidisciplinary research model 'Promoting sustainable performance' which has been implemented across multiple countries including the UK, France, China, Canada and Indonesia. This work has led to practical business tools such as The BIG Journey, The BIG Network, The BIG Toolkit, and The BIG Diagnostic.
Analysis of his recent publications reveals consistent focus on SME growth patterns, human resource management in small firms, university-industry linkages, and cross-national comparative studies. His work bridges academic theory with practical business applications, particularly through diagnostic tools that help business owners understand organizational dynamics.
- Institute for Small Business and Entrepreneurship membership
- British Academy of Management membership
As an active PhD supervisor, Professor Gilman welcomes research students in SME growth, development and productivity areas. His professional experience extends to directorship roles at the Centre for Employment Competitiveness and Growth (University of Kent) and the Centre for Enterprise, Innovation and Growth (Birmingham City University). He is also Co-founder and Director of BIG Associates Ltd, a university spin-out organization. His industry experience includes work with major corporations like Boots PLC, Barclays Bank, and British Airways, plus extensive engagement with thousands of SMEs through research and coaching interventions.
Professor Gilman maintains an international research presence with projects in France, Canada and Indonesia, working with local universities, policymakers, business associations and enterprises to develop context-specific growth strategies for small businesses.
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