The much-loved IBANZ employee had worked for the organisation since its formation in 2005, and was responsible for arranging a host
of industry events.
Tributes flooded in from across the market, led by IBANZ chief executive Mel Gorham.
In a statement to IBANZ members, Gorham remembered Robyn as IBANZ’s “stand in mum” with a “huge heart”, as well as tireless worker for IBANZ members. The chief executive said:
I am very sorry to advise that Robyn Gosden passed away suddenly yesterday after a very short battle with cancer.
Many of you will know Robyn well as she has worked for IBANZ since it was first formed in 2005, focusing on providing outstanding conferences as well as superbly managing the office and accounts for IBANZ and Professional IQ College. Prior to that Robyn worked for IIBA which, along with CIBNZ came together to form IBANZ.
Robyn worked tirelessly and had a fierce loyalty for Members that ensured your interests were always at the forefront of her mind. Over the years Robyn built up a remarkable knowledge of Members and the industry which was extremely helpful to me when I joined two years ago.
Robyn had a huge heart and personality and, most importantly, a great sense of humour and ever present twinkle in her eye.
As many of you will know, she adored her family and was immensely proud of them. She was a stand in Mum for us in the office too.
It goes without saying that Robyn’s passing leaves a huge hole in many of our lives but she does also leave us with wonderful memories to reminisce over.
We will sorely miss our wonderful Robyn, may she rest in peace.
CoverNote publisher Robert Johnson also paid tribute to Robyn, adding:
I returned from a very short break to the shocking news that my friend of near on 20 years had succumbed to her short but fierce battle with cancer – Robyn Gosden had been with IIBA and then IBANZ and I have worked with her that entire time, to say she was a mother figure was an understatement, she was a mentor, a loyal rugby supporter (North Harbour and of course her favourite Wellington) a very loyal client and most of all a friend.
She also used her persuasion skills to get me into sponsoring the Industry awards, so a great salesperson as well.
We had lots of fun times over the years especially at IBANZ conferences the world over which she organised perfectly – I am sure they actually didn’t really require a photographer, but she always made room for me and the memories made will stay forever.
Due to Covid my dealings with her had tailed off on a day to day basis but she was never far from my thoughts, to Barry and their kids I feel incredibly sad as she was such a force in the family unit and they will miss her dearly.
Robyn I am incredibly sad and I will miss you.
