Simon Robey, Chair, The Royal Academy of Music.
Changing Faces

Royal Academy of Music announces new Chair

Arts Professional
2 min read

Sir SIMON ROBEY will be the next Chair of The Royal Academy of Music's Governing Body.

He will succeed incumbent chair Dame JENNY ABRAMSKY, who was appointed in 2014, in July 2024.

Robey's professional background is in investment banking. He worked at Morgan Stanley for 25 years and went on to co-found Robey Warshaw LLP, a specialist firm offering corporate finance advisory services. 

He is the current Chair of Britten Pears Arts, a trustee of Young Classical Artists Trust and Honorary Vice President of the Royal Opera House, following ten years as chair. He also served as a trustee for the Academy from 2004 to 2014.

In 2016, Robey was awarded a knighthood for services to music.

Professor JONATHAN FREEMAN-ATTWOOD, the Academy’s Principal, said Robey brings "vast experience in the cultural sector and business to underpin his personal commitment to music and young musicians". 

"I have a long-standing affection for the Academy and a deep admiration for the work it does and the young people it serves," Robey added. 

"Now, more than ever, we must work hard to ensure that the finest music education and performance can flourish, and that talented young people are equipped with every opportunity to make music important in people’s lives."