Taylor Root UK Trustee Network: An interview with Sophie Hosking

As part of our interview series for our Trustee Network, Taylor Root Partner, Georgia Morgan-Wynne, recently spoke to Sophie Hosking, Head of Legal at Cazoo, about being a Trustee for London Youth Rowing.

What does your NFP do and what is your role as a trustee?

London Youth Rowing (LYR) believes in sport, specifically rowing, for social change and uses rowing to empower young people to aspire, believe and achieve. LYR provides opportunities for young people from disadvantaged areas to experience the benefits of rowing through our range of coaching, inclusion, and health programmes. The organisation creates opportunities and an environment for young people to fulfil their potential and experience success. 

How did you become a trustee there/what was your journey to becoming a trustee there?

I used to be an international rower, retiring after the London Olympics in 2012. I got so much from the sport. After I retired, I wanted to find a way to be involved in the sport and enable more young people to get the opportunities, experiences and benefits I received.

Can you describe any specific skills or expertise you bring to the board as a result of your legal background?

An understanding of risk, including how to mitigate it and the importance of good governance. Depending on the size of the NFP they may not have easy access to legal advice so you can be a sounding board for particular legal issues the organisation is grappling with.  

How has being a trustee helped your legal career?

It has enabled me to gain exposure to board meetings and board dynamics at a much earlier part of my career. It has also helped me develop my strategic analysis and ensured that is at the forefront of my mind. 

What advice would you give to lawyers looking for a trustee role?

You should definitely do it! It is hugely rewarding. Look for roles in areas that you are interested and passionate about. That will help you be more engaged and be able to contribute effectively. At LYR we’re actually in the process of recruiting a new chair so please do get in touch if that sounds interesting.

If you are interested in a Trustee role or are looking to hire a Trustee position, please get in touch with Georgia Morgan-Wynne to find out more. 

If you would like to join our Trustee network, find out more here. 

We want to reiterate that this is not a paid service and forms part of our referral programme, so please do not hesitate to get in touch.