The role is “historic and symbolic”, Thorpe said, and while it carries no formal duties, it is a “once-in-a-generation chance to shine a positive light on Rotherham, celebrate its heritage, and invest in its future”.
It is also about encouraging more people to see financial services as a career and give back to local causes.
He is also director and co-owner of London Money Loans, a second charge loan broker, which was founded in 2016.
Thorpe is also the sole owner of Access 4 Finance, which is a second charge loan broker based in Rotherham. It was launched in 2012.
He has also launched businesses in Teesside, Glasgow, Manchester and Cardiff.
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Thorpe said: “This isn’t about me – it’s about Rotherham. It’s about proving that you can come from here, build something lasting, and use success to create opportunities for others.”
He added that he was writing an autobiography, From Second Charges to Lord of the Manor, with all proceeds pledged to charity.
“This isn’t just another business book – it’s about life, leadership, and legacy. It’s about the reality of setbacks, risk, and resilience. If even one person reads it and thinks, ‘I can build something too,’ then it’s done its job,” he added.
