overview
Robyn graduated from Queen University Belfast in 2019, after studying Business Information Tech. During her time there, she did a placement at a venture capital firm — and went on to work at an early stage venture capital firm upon graduating. She managed a Proof of Concept programme, working closely with innovative entrepreneurs to help them make the first steps to investment, and was an active participant in the innovation ecosystem in Northern Ireland and Scotland, before joining True.
meet Robyn
Why did you choose True?
I have always been passionate about innovation and early stage businesses. When I came across True I was very intrigued by the big names we have partnerships with; they are all businesses I know and admire. The idea of being able to bring my love of innovation and applying it to these companies where it can really make a difference was very exciting to me. After my first few interviews I also got a real sense of the culture and passion everyone here has for True, I find this is really important and motivating in a role and it’s definitely one of my favourite things about True.
How would you describe your job to a five-year-old?
When you get a new toy from a shop, that shop is owned by a business. I help the business make sure that you have the best time possible when you are in the shop getting your toy and help them sell as many toys as possible.
What do you love most — and least — about your job?
I love working with our partners to help them solve real strategic and operational issues, introducing them to our network and watching solutions come to life. One of the tasks I least enjoy is probably keeping my inbox organised — it feels like a never-ending job
Name an idea or company that reimagined a business or industry — one you wish you’d thought of.
The resell/rental industry is one I think will make a huge difference in the way we shop. Fast fashion is a major contributor to climate change. Removing the idea that renting or purchasing second-hand is a bad thing is really important for the planet — but also the pressure young people face to try and keep up with influencers and celebrities. Platforms like HURR and Depop give people the chance to express themselves through fashion without breaking the bank.
Which person or people helped shape and inspire who you are today?
I think it would be unfair to thank just one person, I’ve been very lucky in my early career to have some really fantastic mentors that have pushed me to where I am today. Whether they considered themselves mentors or not, I have learned a lot, especially from my previous female managers, on how to be confident in myself and what I have to say.
true cv
Robyn’s expertise at True:
Robyn has supported the Innovation Team’s programme of Spotlight events, in addition to working across projects on behalf of: Morrisons, Warner Bros, Grosvenor, Oxford Properties, Walgreens and Diageo.
True stories featuring Robyn
News
Walgreens launches search for innovation through new collaboration with True
Walgreens, America’s best-loved pharmacy, health and beauty company, today announced two innovation challenges in collaboration with True, as part of its ongoing mission to offer the best variety of accessible omnichannel services and products for its customer-base.
insight
Q-Commerce: our quick takeaways on a rapidly evolving sector
Not a day seems to go by that a New ‘Quick’ grocery operator doesn't raise funds - launching in a new country or forming a new partnership. In just the past few weeks Berlin-based Gorillas has raised $1bn, and launched a partnership with Tesco.
relevant people
Owen Eddershaw
Analyst, Innovation
“I’ve known Owen since before True — he’s a genuinely sound guy who uses the adjective ‘dreamy’ more than anyone I know.”
Liam Buswell
Director, Innovation
“Liam is incredibly smart, cool and collected. He’s very good at articulating difficult concepts, which is very helpful when discussing horizon technologies and is always happy to go above and beyond to help everyone across the team.”
