Robbie became managing director of Barlows Manufacturing Company in 1979.  In 1983, he was appointed chief executive officer of Tiger Oats.  In 1985, he became chairman of CG Smith Foods and Tiger Oats, and was appointed to the board of Barlow Rand.

Following the unbundling of CG Smith, he remained chairman of Tiger Brands until 2006.  He is currently chairman of Illovo Sugar and a director of Pescanova SA.