Aston University Enlists Aston Martin Executive as Visiting Industry Fellow
Rob Colmer, the head of Government Relations and Sustainability at Aston Martin Lagonda, has joined Aston University as a visiting industry fellow within the College of Business and Social Sciences (BSS).
Rob is responsible for global government relations and sustainability at Aston Martin Lagonda, a FTSE 250 automotive manufacturing company with headquarters in the UK and exporting to over 50 countries around the world.
He directs Aston Martin’s sustainability programme “Racing Green”, which embeds sustainability in the company’s strategy, supporting its ambition to be a world-leading sustainable ultra-luxury automotive business.
Walpole, the representative body for the UK’s £48 billion luxury industry, recently named Colmer on its “2024 Power List” of the most influential people in the British luxury industry.
Rob will be a member of the select group of visiting industry fellows and visiting professors at Aston University and will work closely with the director of the Centre for Circular Economy and Advanced Sustainability (CEAS), Dr Luciano Batista, at Aston Business School. The move will support strategic connections between the University, industry stakeholders and relevant government and third-sector organisations concerned with the global sustainability agenda.
Over the coming years, Rob will engage with teaching and research activities at Aston University, supporting the design of executive training courses, giving programme specific contributions and shaping the strategic orientation of research projects.
He will also participate in networking events that appeal to a wide range of key University stakeholders. The potential to support leadership mentoring will also feature as part of his engagement.
Commenting on his appointment, Rob Colmer said:
“Aston University has a great reputation for business and management.
“As sustainability and corporate responsibility become ever more important success factors for businesses, I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with, and contribute to, the work of the Centre for Circular Economy and Advanced Sustainability.”
Professor Zoe Radnor, pro vice-chancellor and executive dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences at Aston University, said:
“I warmly welcome Rob Colmer to the group of College fellows.
“His recognised expertise in sustainability aligns with Aston University’s commitment to the sustainable development goals and the net zero agenda.
“Rob’s views will help us to strategically embed sustainability across our teaching and research activities aimed to tackle real-world challenges and inform government policy.”
Dr Luciano Batista said:
“Rob is a strong addition to the team of visiting industry fellows and visiting professors at Aston University.
“He will be a key player who will bring a wealth of experience and valuable practical expertise in the sustainability field.
“His wide-ranging industrial connections will add considerable value to the teaching activities and research collaborations we develop at Aston University.”