Robert has spent most of his life in the Midlands. He grew up in Wolverhampton and Shropshire, before representing the constituency of Newark in Parliament. He is the son of a small businessman and a secretary.

Robert holds a First Class degree in History from Cambridge University and was a Thouron Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.

Robert qualified as a lawyer, practising commercial law in London. Robert then pursued a career in business, including serving as International Managing Director at Christie’s, the auction business.

Robert was elected to the House of Commons in 2014, and appointed to serve in the Cabinet in 2019 - making him the third youngest person to attend and serve in Cabinet since the Second World War, after William Hague and Harold Wilson.

Robert has served as a Parliamentary Private Secretary, Minister and Cabinet Minister in the Governments of five Prime Ministers, from David Cameron to Rishi Sunak.

Robert has served as Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Minister of State for Health and Immigration, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government.

Robert helped lead the UK's response to Covid-19, made significant strides in reducing homelessness, and has been a strong voice against antisemitism and extremism along with promoting Holocaust Education. Robert has also played an important role in supporting Ukrainian refugees, being the first MP to host a Ukrainian refugee family.

He is married to Michal and together they have three young girls.