Professor Gorton is internationally recognized for his research in the fields of agri-food supply chains and competitiveness, small businesses and rural development, regional foods and sponsorship. His research has a high number of cross-citations, and he has published over 30 research papers in ABS-listed 3*/4* academic journals. He has been a Coordinator in numerous funded European programs and has offered consulting services to: European Parliament, European Commission, World Bank, FAO, OECD, DEFRA. He has also served as Chair of the Marketing, Operations and Systems (MOS) Department at Newcastle University Business School, UK with 35 faculty members. The MOS Department was ranked 6th in the UK’s Complete University Guide. Finally, Professor Gorton is an editor and member of the Editorial Board of numerous academic journals.