Educated at Manchester Grammar School and Manchester University but did not graduate. 2 years of National service in the RAF. Joined an engineering company having a variety of roles leading to Manager of the Personnel and Training Division. Returned to Manchester University as Lecturer in Personnel Management and on to Professor of Human Resources Management and Dean of the School of Management. Now Emeritus Professor of Management. Believed to be the only professor in a Russell Group university who had failed as an undergraduate in the same university.45 years as a member (now companion) of the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management. Travelled professionally in most countries of Europe and South East Asia as lecturer/advisor/examiner. 52 books.Married, four children and 10 grandchildren. Enthusiastic member of United Reformed Church. Equally enthusiastic member of Lancashire County Cricket Club. Keen cruiser.