Robin Herbert
Robin Herbert | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date London, England |
| Died | January 12, 2024 (aged 89) |
| Occupation(s) | Banker, horticulturist |
| Known for | President of the Royal Horticultural Society |
Robin Arthur Eidyr Herbert (5 March 1934 – 12 January 2024) was a distinguished English banker and horticulturist who held the position of president at the Royal Horticultural Society.
Early life and education
Herbert was born in London to Sir John Herbert, a Conservative Member of Parliament and former Governor of Bengal, and Lady Mary, who had connections to the British royal family. He came into possession of a considerable estate early in life, which fueled his passion for gardening.
His academic journey included studies at Eton College, followed by attendance at the University of Oxford and later Harvard Business School. In 1960, he wed American Margaret Lewis and established residence in Llanover, eventually inheriting the Llanarth estate.
Career
Herbert embarked on his banking profession in 1963 by acquiring a stake in Leopold Joseph, a modest London merchant bank, partnering with figures such as Prince Rupert Loewenstein and Alexis de Redé. Starting from a minor role, he ascended to chairman by 1978, navigating the institution through periods marked by contentious clients and legal challenges. His leadership concluded with the bank’s acquisition by the Bank of Butterfield in 2004 for £51.5 million. Additionally, Herbert served on boards including NatWest, Marks & Spencer, and contributed to the National Trust’s Welsh committee.
Despite not having formal education in botany, Herbert made notable contributions to horticulture through plant exploration ventures and by cultivating vast tree collections on his properties. His services to environmentalism and horticulture were recognized with a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) honor in 1994.
In 2017, Herbert's name appeared in the Paradise Papers disclosures.
Death
Herbert passed away on 12 January 2024 at the age of 89.