John Gilbert (Economics, 1972)

Chief Executive, John Gilbert Financial Research

ANG Role: Events

Following a career in international banking with NatWest, HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank, I now own JFGR – a research business specialising in financial and business research. JGFR has been providing regular commentary and analysis on consumer confidence, financial behaviour, banking, sport and the Olympics over the past decade, as well as undertaking client-specific studies and reports. JGFR produces regular articles and blogs for The Marketing Society and Financial Services Forum. I am also a great supporter of the South West region, with an interest in the tourism sector through running a holiday home business.

I get great satisfaction from supporting worthwhile causes, such as Cricket for Change, a charity using cricket and rugby to improve the lives of disadvantaged young people, of which I am Chairman.

Following the establishment of the Alumni Relations Department I decided to get more involved with the University after listening to a talk on supporting sports scholars. Having been heavily involved in sport when I was a student, it has continued to play a major part in my life and this seemed like a great way to give something back. I have been a strong supporter of the University’s fundraising and alumni activities for many years. In that time, I have organized a number of alumni events, including a Sports Reunion Ball at The Hurlingham Club and an Alumni Sports Dinner / Dance at Lords. In 2005 I helped establish the annual Alumni Golf Day, which has raised significant amounts of money for sport at Exeter over the seven year period.

I joined the Alumni Network Group in 2011 with responsibility for events.