Robert Frew
I graduated in Physics from Queen Mary University of London, and joined Kodak (photographic film manufacturers). Postgraduate study in Management at the University of Bradford School of Management, along with financial management expertise, led to my professional qualification as a Fellow Chartered Management Accountant (FCMA).
As a management consultant and financial management specialist, I advised many organisations and completed many successful company turnarounds in the UK, Southern Africa and Turkey. My international career spanned many diverse sectors including aeronautics, broadcasting, leisure, media, gold mining, oil exploration and international trade.
Further studies and research at City, University of London, led to MA and PhD degrees in Arts Policy and Management. The scope of my doctoral research covered organisations in the profit and not-for-profit creative industries sector. Key contemporary arts and cultural issues were identified for further debate, including the management and leadership of arts organisations. A case for a new approach to major arts funding in England was proposed.
Research interests include the creative industries, technology, media and broadcasting sectors. Published feature articles include, the major issues and challenges facing the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and the importance of audience trust. In 2022, I submitted written evidence to the UK Parliamentary, House of Lords Communications and Digital Select Committee inquiry into BBC future funding.
With an interest in UK foreign policy, I am a member of the Conservative Foreign and Commonwealth Council, a forum for international relations that promotes dialogue, understanding and global awareness.
On a lighter note, reviewing fine wines and speciality foods from around the world is also very gratifying!