Robert Cheek serves as the Chief Operating Officer at UVify, a company at the forefront of swarm drone technology. His journey in the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) sector is distinguished by significant contributions to the development, manufacturing, and operational strategies of advanced drone platforms. UVify’s success stories, including the market-leading IFO series and the innovative OMEGA environment, owe much to Robert’s visionary leadership and technical acumen.
Prior to his tenure at UVify, Robert was deeply involved in the robotics industry through his role as a robotics analyst for the investment banking division of Hyundai Motor Group. During this time, he played a key role in Hyundai’s strategic acquisition of Boston Dynamics, marking a pivotal moment in the conglomerate’s foray into advanced robotics. His responsibilities extended beyond this landmark deal, involving the identification of emergent robotics companies and advising on potential investments and partnerships globally, with a focus on firms in the US, South Korea, and Germany.
Robert’s earlier career highlights include spearheading the GoCart project at Yujin Robot’s Innovation Lab, one of the pioneering initiatives in the field of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). His efforts not only led to the project’s success but also attracted investment from notable industry players, demonstrating the commercial and technological impact of his work.
In addition to his leadership roles, Robert has made substantial contributions to the discourse on robotics and technology investment. His insights have been shared through research papers, media articles, and presentations at international events, making him a respected voice in the global tech community. His work with TED regular Derek Sivers and contributions to discussions on startups underscore his commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration.
Robert’s educational background is as impressive as his professional journey. He holds an MBA from the Helsinki School of Economics (now part of Aalto University School of Business) and a BA from the University of Florida. His academic pursuits also took him to St Catharine’s College, Cambridge University, where he furthered his knowledge in his field. Complementing his education are several licenses and certifications, including a Project Management Certificate from Stanford University.
Robert Cheek’s biography is a testament to his role as a leading innovator and strategist in the drone and robotics industries. His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing technology and a keen understanding of the business landscape, making him an invaluable asset to UVify and the broader tech community.
