The 'Philanthropy or bust' Breakfast, 13th April 2012

Arguably Brighton's most famous landmark, The Royal Pavilion occupies the very heart of the city. Packed with art and culture and tracing a remarkable history, the Regency palace has become the symbol of Brighton and Hove. Robert Yates is head of fundraising for The Royal Pavilion and Museums Foundation, raising money to restore and preserve the iconic building. At this inspirational breakfast Robert retraces the key steps in his path to the pavilion: from drinking with his dad to completing his degree. Robert also worked in Tanzania and Guyana for 4 years, before embarking on a journey in fundraising: spending 5 years at the Royal Botanic Kew Gardens, paving the way for his current role at the Royal Palace. Robert talks about how to cook up a new working culture at an established organisation and his thoughts on the main ingredients to achieving it. He also highlights the important role that the Pavilion plays in Brighton's culture: past and present.