Taylor Root UK Trustee Network: An interview with Marcus Lee

As part of our interview series for our Trustee Network, Taylor Root Partner, Georgia Morgan- Wynne recently spoke to Marcus Lee, Legal Consultant for The Walt Disney Company about his experience as a Trustee for King’s College London Students’ Union (KCLSU).

Can you talk us through your journey to being a Trustee and the role you hold?

I am a Trustee of Kings College London Student Union (KCLSU), which is a registered charity promoting welfare and opportunities for KCL undergraduates and postgraduates. Throughout my career I have worked with many inspiring senior lawyers who prioritised pro bono work and helping those at the start of their careers, so when KCLSU got in touch see if I would be interested in a Trustee role it really appealed to me. In my role, I take part in board meetings, chair sub-committees, and give other assistance such as advising the CEO and other personnel including Student Officers and Trustees.

How has it felt being a Trustee of an organisation which helps students of your former University?”

I have many great memories of my time as a Postgraduate at KCL– not just on my master’s course, but also of the people I met and the clubs and societies I got involved with. So, it feels really rewarding to help run an organisation which looks out for the welfare of KCL students and makes a positive difference to their experiences and prospects.

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

Lawyers are often a strong choice as a non-executive Trustee or board member, because there is a great deal of overlap in skillset – for example as a lawyer, you need to use your analytical brain to understand new concepts or the detail of a situation and you often need to see a wider holistic picture in order to advise on the best strategy.

What sort of benefits have you discovered for yourself or your career from being a Trustee?

In my time as a Trustee I’ve gained a great deal, such as an insight into how different boards and leaders work.  I also met and spent time with a far greater variety of people from different experiences and backgrounds than I would have otherwise. It has also added to my experience of being a board member and chairing sub-committee meetings, as well as given me a good introduction to how non-execs and execs can operate and work together effectively.

What have you enjoyed most about being a Trustee?

In both my day job and my Trustee role, I really enjoy being a trusted advisor – someone who can be a sounding board and whose opinion is valued and respected. Mentoring KCL students has also been something I have enjoyed immensely and it has been great to see so many of them go on to have such impressive career paths.

How did you find interviewing for a Trustee role?

It felt like a positive, collaborative, two-way conversation rather than a grilling.  I enjoyed the process and meeting the different members of the panel. When I realised that I graduated from KCL before some of the panel members were born, I did feel old though!

You have hired other Trustees for KCLU – can you share any useful insights that would help our network?

I would read the job spec very carefully and compile real-life examples from your own experiences showing where there is a good overlap and how you can add value to the organisation. Checking the news and doing your own research into the organisation, as well preparing relevant questions should also show that you are motivated for the right reasons and genuinely want to help.

What one piece of advice would you give to lawyers looking for a Trustee role?

I have had a very positive experience and would highly recommend it. If you’re interested in becoming a Trustee, you should take your time and choose an organisation that you’re really passionate about, and that you can devote time and energy to.

If you are interested in a Trustee role or are looking to hire a Trustee position, please get in touch with Sarah Ingwersen 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.