Talking Allyship with Robyn Grew, Group COO, GC and Head of ESG at Man Group | The Progression Puzzle Series 1, Episode 8

Our latest episode of The Progression Puzzle welcomes Robyn Grew, Group COO, GC and Head of ESG at Man Group to piece together her progression puzzle. 

 

Robyn started her career in law before falling into the financial services world and discovering a hidden passion for the unique impact investment banking has on the world. In her own words, through a series of breaks, she found herself gaining more experience and in turn working her way up the career ladder.

 

In her current role as COO, GC and Head of ESG, Robyn works with all the business functions to oversee the operations element of Man Group. During her role as Head of ESG, she oversees the overall corporate social responsibility of the firm and manages the strategy of the responsible investment products. 

 

She joins host Michael Barrington-Hibbert to discuss her career journey from her laissez-faire attitude in school to making the switch from law to finance and the journey from there to her current role at Man Group.

 

As part of the conversation, Robyn discusses the challenges she has encountered as a gay woman operating in the very traditional world of investment banking. It is these experiences which have driven her to champion allyship, in the hope, that in the not too-near future the financial services industry will be an inclusive space for all. 

 

This podcast is a must-listen for anyone trying to work their way up the corporate ladder, who may feel they do not necessarily fit in. Robyn showcases that there is a space for everyone and provides key takeaways to help you claim your space. 

 

Timestamped Guide:

00:04 - Introduction to The Progression Puzzle 

00:59 - Introduction to Robyn 

02:18 - What does the role of COO and Chief Legal Counsel entail?

04:09 - How did you develop the skillset to undertake this role?

09:14 - When did the change from a more laissez-faire attitude at school to wanting to pursue a career in law and then onto investment banking?

14:18 - What role models helped Robyn accept it was okay to be different?

19:07 - Why are you a champion of allyship across different intersectionalities?

21:35 - Can you share an example of where you have found navigating the corporate environment as a gay woman?

25:19 - What has been the most rewarding part of your career to date?

27:15 - What pieces of advice would you give to your younger self?

 

Connect with your host, Michael Barrington-Hibbert, on LinkedIn

Find your guest, Robyn Grew, on LinkedIn

 

Thanks for listening to our conversations on The Progression Puzzle, brought to you by Barrington Hibbert Associates

This podcast is a Loaded Hype production