Robert had a successful career in financial services marketing before moving in to arts marketing, sponsorship and fundraising. A life-long opera fan he was closely involved with the establishment of English Touring Opera (then Opera 80). Robert was publicist for the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World for twelve years. He is a former General Manager of The Sixteen has also worked as Development Manager for English Touring Theatre, and latterly Opera Rara.

Away from the arts Robert worked for several years for the innovative sustainable energy charity Ashden.  He is particularly interested in widening sources of funding and in developing methods of assessing the impact of philanthropic investment.

A keen singer Robert has sung with many groups and was for many years Chairman of the renowned English Chamber Choir with whom he still sings.