Born-and-bred in Birmingham, Robert was first elected to the City Council in 2006, representing the ward of Erdington. Since 2014 Robert has been the Leader of the Opposition on Birmingham City Council, having previously served as Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group and Chairman of the Equalities and HR scrutiny committee. Robert has also served on Centro/ITA/TDC serving in various roles including Lead Member for Finance and Lead Member for the Environment. Currently Robert is also a Director and a Deputy Chairman of the Local Government Association.

Robert also sits as a Council appointed Guardian on the Birmingham Proof House, Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District and a School Governor at both St Barnabas School, Erdington and the Schools of King Edward VI.

Robert has a passion for heritage and ensuring the protection of the many amazing heritage assets across our wonderful city, campaigning for developments to be in keeping with the heritage of Birmingham’s many suburbs.