My research examines events and tourism from a range of socio-cultural perspectives. In particular, I examine the relationship between the sphere of public policy and the worlds of sport, events and tourism.

My current research is centred around the production of two books:

Event Bidding (due 2017) w/ Prof David McGillivray:

This text examines the bidding processes surrounding major peripatetic events (Olympics, World Cup, City of Culture) examining the historical development of such bids, successful campaign strategies used by bid candidates and a range of critical issues relating to the bidding process.

Lifestyle Sports and Public Policy (due 2017) w/ Dr Sandro Carnicelli

This text examines the interplay between the emerging lifestyle sports terrain and public policy. This edited edition draws together researchers from across the world and provides case studies of sports including skateboarding, parkour, surfing, rodeo riding and snow sports in contexts ranging from the UK to Scandanavia to North America, Europe and Fiji.

Following completion of my current research I intend to undertake projects examining the relationship between mega-events and civil liberties and further examine the use of socio-cultural theory to better understand contemporary events management.

I would be interested in engaging with organisations within the fields of:

Events Management

Tourism Management

Sports Management

I would be interested in engaging with trade organisations such as the National Outdoor Events Association, Scottish Events and Festivals Association.

In addition to my research activities I have engaged with CPD and training work in fields such as sponsorship and fundraising, tourism development and experiential management.