The Society of Merchant Venturers (SMV) has appointed Robert Bourns, a member since 2015, to lead the organisation for the year ahead. The tradition of appointing a new leader each year on ‘Charter Day’ has been upheld since 1552, when the Society of Merchant Venturers was granted its first Royal Charter by Edward VI, later endorsed by Charles I in 1639.
During his inaugural speech, Robert emphasised the importance of continuing to develop new partnerships that bring together the necessary combination of skills, expertise, resources and energy to achieve real change. He said: “Building partnerships is at the heart of SMV’s mission to help communities across the region to thrive. When determined individuals and organisations work together, the impact of their work, and the positive change they can deliver for their communities and for others, is extraordinary.”
Speaking about a number of existing partnerships that are helping to drive SMV’s social purpose objectives, Robert described the Bristol Legacy Foundation, South Bristol Youth, Babbasa and Black South West Network as “pioneering change-makers”. He went on to say that these are “powerful examples of dynamic partnerships and networks that enhance our collective impact by empowering all of us to understand the broader challenges faced by communities across the region and to map a forward path where we can deliver positive change together.”
Robert also acknowledged the contribution of SMV’s 73 members, who he said “share a determination to address inequality and disadvantage by volunteering their time, expertise and resources to make a difference.”
Having led numerous successful teams throughout his career, Robert reflected that he has “long recognised the strength and energy that an organisation generates from bringing together diversity within its membership, including background, experience, culture and faith”. He concluded: “Organisations that listen to the different perspectives that each person brings are undoubtedly more effective.”
Born and raised in Bristol, Robert returned to the city after studying for a Law degree at Cardiff University. He trained as a solicitor with Osborne Clarke before joining Trumps, which later became TLT. During 33 years with the firm, Robert oversaw a number of strategic mergers and acquisitions, growing the practice from a single office with seven partners and 35 staff in 1996 to over 1,200 employees by 2015, with offices in Belfast, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Manchester and Piraeus, Greece.
Robert was elected President of the Law Society of England & Wales 2016/17 and, following governance changes, he was the Society’s first Chair from 2018 to 2023. Robert also holds an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of the West of England; he was made a Deputy Lieutenant of the City and County of Bristol in 2014; and Vice Lord Lieutenant of the City and County of Bristol in 2020.
Throughout his career and into his retirement, Robert has continued to actively support a range of charities and philanthropic organisations, alongside his work for SMV. He is a current member of the Antient Society of St. Stephen’s Ringers; a Member of Council for the St Monica Trust; and a Trustee of the National Pro Bono Centre. He is a past Chair and Trustee of Quartet Community Foundation; past Chair and Trustee of St Peter’s Hospice; past President of The Dolphin Society; past Trustee of ABLAZE; and past Governor of Bannerman Road Community Academy and Merchants’ Academy.
