Personal profile
Academic Biography
I am an experienced lecturer, facilitator and researcher, with over 10 years experience in philanthropy and entrepreneurship research.
My current research involves looking closely at the motivational base of entrepreneurs, and identifying the stimulus which prompts beneficience. I am particularly interested in 'grass roots' philanthropy, and why individuals choose to give within their local areas. I have a particular interest in social impact and community engagement. I also have an interest in dark entrepreneurship noting how individuals may use its gains to create legitmacy for themselves in society.
My teaching is focussed on entrepreneurial leadership and organisational sustainability. This interdisciplinary approach takes account of social and economic approaches to leading the contemporary organisation. It draws upon business and social science research to help learners understand the importance of individual behaviours and the impact on the botton line. I have attended several conferences to promote my work, including those hosted by ISBE, CABS and EEUK.
Enterprise Interest and Activities
My enterprise activity is extensive and I am the Business School lead in this regard. I am currently working in several areas:
Knowledge transfer: I have a wealth of experience of designing, developing and facilitating CPD and executive education to leaders at all levels and from within every sector. I work closely with employers to understand the skills needs and develop courses that are fit for purpose and bespoke to the organisation.
Graduate employability: A key part of my role is providing opportunities for our students to become work ready. This involves working with businesses to provide 'real world' activities for students to engage with to enhance social mobility. Opportunities include: guest lectures, live project briefs, work experience, sandwhich placements, industry visits and conferences.
Help to Grow Mangement Course: I am course director for the Government HTGM course. This is a 12 week course, which is 90% Governement funded to support businesses through their growth trajectory.
Education/Academic qualification
PhD, Entrepreneurial Philanthropy: An exploration of life course, location and motivation, University of Huddersfield
Award Date: 10 Oct 2023
PgC Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, Teesside University
Award Date: 1 Oct 2014
Master, Leadership and Organisational Change, Teesside University
Award Date: 21 Oct 2011
External positions
Chair of Partners, North East Chamber of Commerce
11 Sept 2024 → …
Chair of Trustees, Tees Valley Education Trust
1 May 2023 → …
Business Mentor & Advisor, Assist Women's Network
2023 → …
Trustee, Recovery Connections
1 Jun 2020 → …
Vice Chair, Institute of Directors
2020 → 2022
Press/Media
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Teesside Students tackling hunger and poverty
Withrington, S. & Mathew, S.
5/01/23
1 item of Media coverage
Press/Media: Press / Media
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Teesside University recruiting for Help to Grow Management course
27/07/23 → 12/02/24
2 Media contributions
Press/Media: Press / Media
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Teesside students tackling poverty and recycling could set up their own businesses
Withrington, S. & Mathew, S.
6/01/23
1 item of Media coverage
Press/Media: Press / Media
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Students set challenges to help encourage sustainability
Withrington, S. & Mathew, S.
5/01/23
1 item of Media coverage
Press/Media: Press / Media
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Students set challenges to help encourage real sustainability
Withrington, S. & Mathew, S.
6/01/23
1 item of Media coverage
Press/Media: Press / Media