The Royal Bank of Scotland today announces the appointment of Robert Begbie as Executive Chair, Scotland and Senior Advisor, Commercial & Institutional, effective from 1 January 2027.
The newly created role reflects the strategic importance of Scotland to the Group and comes as the Royal Bank of Scotland prepares to mark its 300th anniversary. Robert will provide senior leadership for the bank in Scotland, helping bring together activity across the Group, deepen relationships with customers, government and stakeholders, and support the delivery of an ambitious Scotland strategy focused on growth, investment and long-term prosperity.
Robert has spent almost five decades with the bank, having started his career at 16 in the Musselburgh Royal Bank of Scotland branch. He has led Commercial & Institutional through a period of strong performance and strategic progress, helping strengthen NatWest Group’s position as Scotland and the UK’s biggest bank for business. In his new role, he will continue to support the Commercial & Institutional franchise as Senior Advisor.
As Executive Chair, Scotland, Robert will work with leaders across the Royal Bank of Scotland to support the delivery of its business plans and raise the profile of the bank with its 2 million retail and 110,000 business customers, stakeholders, and the wider public.
Paul Thwaite, Group Chief Executive Officer, NatWest Group, said: “Scotland has always been central to the story of Royal Bank of Scotland and to NatWest Group today. As we approach the bank’s 300th anniversary, Robert’s appointment reflects both the importance of Scotland to our future and our ambition to play an active role in supporting growth across the country.
“Robert brings deep experience, strong relationships and a personal connection to Scotland that few people can match. He has made an outstanding contribution to the bank over many years, and I am pleased he will continue to play such an important role for NatWest Group, our customers and colleagues.”
Robert Begbie said: “Scotland matters a great deal to me and to the bank. I started my career with Royal Bank of Scotland in the Musselburgh branch almost five decades ago, so it is a real privilege to take on this role as we look ahead to the bank’s 300th anniversary.
“Scotland has enormous ambition and opportunity. Whether it is supporting entrepreneurs and SMEs, helping mid-market firms grow, backing investment in infrastructure and energy, or strengthening communities, Royal Bank of Scotland has an important role to play. I am looking forward to working with colleagues, customers, government and partners across Scotland to build on our long-standing contribution and support the next chapter of growth.”
The Royal Bank of Scotland was founded in 1727 and will mark its 300th anniversary in 2027. The anniversary will provide an opportunity to celebrate the bank’s heritage, recognise the contribution of colleagues and customers, and look ahead to how the bank can continue helping people, families and businesses in Scotland to thrive.
