Sir George Simpson: 19th century fur trade governor and precursor of systematic management

Abstract

PurposeSir George Simpson, the Governor of the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) from 1821 to his death in 1860, was the subject of numerous biographical works that described various facets of the man including his managerial abilities, literary prowess, physical stamina, abundant energy, extensive art collection and ethnological specimens. Two related aspects of his outstanding management style have been overlooked: the genesis of his management style and where it can be placed in the evolution of management practices during the 19th century.Design/methodology/approachPrimary data from the Hudson's Bay Company archives plus secondary sources.FindingsSimpson's management abilities came from his grammar school education and his apprenticeship to a counting house. More importantly, it can be attributed to his association with his mentor Andrew Wedderburn, his dedication to the HBC, and his high level of physical and intellectual energy. His information intensive management style was also a significant precursor to systematic management, which occurred later in the 19th century.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should examine other examples of the evolution of management during the 19th century, particularly the transition from sub‐unit accountability to systematic management.Originality/valueThe paper emphasizes the importance of managers in making management systems work.

The impact of institutions on management accounting changes at the Hudson's Bay Company, 1670 to 2005

“…The second management accounting set was designed and implemented by the governor and the committee in London, especially by one committee member, Andrew Wedderburn. However, the remoteness of the posts from London meant that the new set was not fully implemented until after 1822 and the sending of George Simpson to North America (Spraakman and Margret, 2005a).…”

The transfer of management accounting practices from London counting houses to the British North American fur trade

“…The committee likely expected some resistance and thus, as noted, they sent accountant Edward Roberts to assist with the implementation. When the implementation was still not fully completed by 1820, they sent George Simpson, who was ultimately successful with implementing the radical change (Spraakman & Margret, 2005).…”

Learning from the past to envision the future: a five-year review 2005-2009

“…He emphasized information and written communication with HBC outposts across the ocean, many of which he consistently visited. He further created systematic reporting of budgets and accounting reports and specialized business training to regulate personnel variations in education and ability which are now the basics of systematic management (Spraakman and Margret, 2005).…”