Chandler as a biographer: content thematic analysis of Chandler's biography of Henry Varnum Poor

PurposeThis paper analyzes Chandler's biography of Henry Varnum Poor to assess Chandler's contribution to management history as a biographer.Design/methodology/approachUsing Winter's content thematic analysis, measure Poor's motivational needs for achievement, affiliation‐intimacy, and power, as they are depicted by Chandler throughout the stages of Poor's career as a business editor, analyst, and reformer.FindingsOur analysis shows that Chandler views Poor's motivation as stable throughout Poor's three professional roles. This paper found that Chandler views Poor as primarily driven by his need for power, followed by a significant need for achievement, and a minor need for affiliation throughout his working life.Originality/valueThis research is unique because it provides the first social‐scientific assessment of Chandler's contribution to management history as a biographer.