Robert Branagh was recently appointed non-executive director at Trafalgar House. He currently chairs the Armed Forces pension board and the Pensions Management Institute board.
What was your favourite subject at school and why?
I really enjoyed history, particularly ancient history. I went on to Leeds University and read history with politics in my first year – two subjects some say you can’t be wrong in.
What was your first paid role?
When I was at school I worked on a Saturday and then one summer in the restaurant at Woolworths to earn some extra money.
What led you to a career in investment?
I took a 24-month graduate training position with Crown Financial Management in the late 1980s which introduced me to the world of pensions, actuaries, investments and change.
What are your priorities for this new role?
As a non-executive director, I now have a balance of not getting too hands-on with the executive team but being sufficiently involved to pass on my expertise and, of course, experiences, both good and bad. At Trafalgar House it is essential to understand the needs of our current and prospective clients and then work with colleagues to develop propositions that address these needs while aligning with our values of quality and transparency.
What is the biggest hurdle for institutional investors to overcome?
I know we always say that we live in interesting times but the very recent political and economic events in the UK have been unprecedented in my lifetime. Although there’s something in “keep calm and carry on”, the biggest challenge to be overcome remains that of decent communication providing investors with the information they need to make the right decisions.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
A school-aged boy and girl and a mad Welsh springer spaniel all contrive to give me a busy family life. I really enjoy watching sport and am a season ticket holder at Crawley Town FC, Ulster rugby, and Middlesex cricket club.
