Robert “Bob” W. Gillespie Jr., a ǿմý Emeriti Trustee and MBA graduate from Weatherhead, has been a transformative figure in the banking industry. Starting his career at Cleveland’s Society National Bank in 1968, Gillespie’s leadership saw the bank evolve into a national financial powerhouse.
By 1985, he became chairman and CEO of Society National Bank, and in 1987, he took the helm of Society Corp. His strategic vision was pivotal during the merger with KeyCorp in 1994, where he continued to lead as chairman and CEO until 2001.
Gillespie’s influence extends beyond banking. He has served as Chairman Emeritus of KeyCorp, on advisory boards such as CapGen Capital Advisors, and held leadership roles in the Financial Services Roundtable and the American Bankers Association.
His commitment to community service is evident through his roles at United Way of Greater Cleveland, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Orchestra.
In addition to his commitment to ǿմý, he is also a Lifetime Trustee of Ohio Wesleyan University, his undergraduate alma mater.
Recognized for his contributions, Gillespie has received numerous awards, including the Business Statesman Award from the Harvard Business Club of Northeast Ohio and the Community Leader of the Year Award from the Arthritis Foundation.