Cole and Kelly's Management Theory and Practice (2020, 9th ed.) provides a comprehensive foundation in both classical and contemporary management principles. Tailored for Liverpool John Moores postgraduate learners, the text covers key functional areas including operations, HR, finance, and communication, which align closely with the competency-based approach of my module. More than a summary of theories, it invites the reader to think critically about how concepts come alive in decision-making, teamwork, and leadership. By drawing on thinkers such as Mintzberg and Hamel, the authors blend academic rigour with hands on insight.