Alumni profile

Bronwyn Curtis is a leading economist whose career spans both global financial markets and media. 

Bronwyn has risen to the top of her field in one of the most competitive financial environments in the world, and was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to Business Economics in the 2008 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. 

Formerly the Head of Global Research at HSBC, Bronwyn is now a Non-Executive Director at the UK's Office of Budget Responsibility, and received an Honorary Doctorate from La Trobe University in 2017.

Bronwyn was a member of the first batch of La Trobe graduates in 1970. She said there was a special aura to the university from the beginning.

“It was the whole atmosphere of the place that made us feel like we could succeed," Bronwyn said.

“It was all new, we were all setting up and it was ours to shape. We felt we owned it.

“I did economics. It was the best thing I ever did because I love markets. I wouldn’t have had that unless I came to La Trobe."

If it wasn't for La Trobe, Bronwyn doesn't believe she would've had the same confidence that she displayed throughout her career.

“Throughout my career, I’ve taken risks. La Trobe gave me that security, but also the ability to try things,” she said.

As a woman, Bronwyn has run into glass ceilings. Her advice is to keep persisting and, like her, don't be afraid to take risks. 

"You will hit glass ceilings, but don’t keep beating your head against that glass ceiling. Move sideways. Take a risk. Go somewhere else," she said.

Distinguished Business and commerce

Last updated: 15th May 2019