Rathbones investment director elected sheriff of the city of london

Rathbones, one of the UK’s leading wealth and asset managers, is pleased to announce that one of its longest-serving senior Investment Directors, Robert Hughes-Penney, has today been elected one of the two Sheriffs of the City of London. Robert will be working alongside Keith Bottomley. Robert will formally take office on 26 September 2025.

Robert takes on the role of Sheriff during the City of London’s Growth Unleashed campaign, launched in 2024 to demonstrate the City’s commitment to a bold growth agenda. His appointment follows involvement in the City’s policy agenda over many years at Rathbones. In his new role, Robert will lead a campaign to facilitate the City as it seeks to help drive UK growth through a renewed spirit of ambition, innovative tech and its many communities.

In his new role, Robert will support the work of the Lord Mayor as an ambassador for the City and UK financial and professional services more broadly and advance the City’s engagement with the wider civic, philanthropic, legal and business communities through events held at the Old Bailey. This includes the Justice for All Series, consisting of five events that explore the financial, moral, and institutional requirements for delivering justice in the 21st century. The Sheriffs also contribute to and encourage engagement with fundraising efforts on behalf of the Sheriffs’ and Recorder’s Fund, which works to support the rehabilitation of prison-leavers and their families.

Robert said: “I am delighted to have been elected as one of the two Sheriffs of the City of London, a position in the second oldest secular office in the country, and one of historical importance for law, order and justice. The City has a crucial role in supporting the economic stability and development of London, the UK and internationally, and I am looking forward to supporting that as Sheriff.  

“My 30 years at Rathbones has taught me the importance of helping men and women across the UK earn, give and save responsibly. In my new role, I will explore how we support people within the judicial system to build a better future for themselves. I am looking forward to contributing to the wellbeing of those within the City of London and all those connected to it, in the constant pursuit of a brighter future.”

Robert entered the City in 1993 after serving in the British Army across Canada, Germany and the UK. He has been at Rathbones for more than 30 years, primarily as an Investment Director managing global multi-assets portfolios for a range of clients. In that time, he has spent several years on the Board, Executive and Management committees, and helped set up Rathbones’ Stewardship Committee. Earlier this month, he was appointed Chair of TheCityUK’s Business Council and in 2018 was elected as Alderman for the Ward of Cheap in the City of London. Robert is a passionate supporter of financial literacy and education.

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Notes to editors: 

For more further information, please contact:

Frances McNab, Press Office Senior Executive: frances.mcnab@rathbones.com, 07585981924