Leading with purpose: Seven strategies for sports charity Trustees

Taking on a Trustee role in a sports charity can be both rewarding and challenging. The position requires a blend of passion, strategic thinking, and a strong commitment to governance. To gain insights into the role, we spoke to Amy Schnee, Trustee at the Netball Development Trust (NDT) and Head of Legal at Informa Festivals.

The NDT is dedicated to providing a safe haven for children in Africa, offering them a chance to experience the joy of play through netball while simultaneously delivering crucial education on sexual and reproductive health. Having already made a tangible difference in the lives of 24,000 children, the organisation is now poised for an exciting phase of growth, expanding both its reach and services.

Find your passion

Amy was actively seeking a Trustee role that would allow her to channel her passion into meaningful impact. When she came across the NDT Trustee role in the Taylor Root Trustee Newsletter, she instantly recognised it as an opportunity that aligned with her values.

The NDT’s mission resonated deeply with her. She explains, “After speaking with the Founders during the interview process, I was deeply inspired by their vision and commitment. It became clear to me that this was a place where my skills and passion could truly create a lasting and meaningful impact.”

Recognise the responsibilities and commitment

When joining a charity, understanding your role and the key priorities is essential. Amy explains, “I was initially recruited with a strategy and governance focus and I’ve since been appointed the role of Chair of the Board. It’s important to understand the commitment—being a Trustee comes with legal, financial, and ethical responsibilities.”

Ensuring you appreciate the demands involved and being willing to engage fully is crucial. Clarifying your role and responsibilities early on ensures that you can effectively contribute to the charity’s success.

Leverage your professional skills

A Trustee’s professional background can significantly influence their approach to the role. In Amy’s case, her legal background provides a strong foundation for governance, compliance, and strategic decision-making. “Having worked extensively in corporate law in a FTSE100 business, I’m well-versed in assessing risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and structuring agreements,” she notes. This expertise has been invaluable in embedding governance and strategy within the NDT.

Trustees often face various challenges, from regulatory compliance to strategic planning. Amy’s experience equips her with the skills to navigate these challenges. She explains, “Ultimately, my role as a Trustee is about contributing my expertise to strengthen oversight, mitigate risks, and support the charity’s mission effectively.” This helps to navigate real-time challenges while staying aligned with the charity’s long-term goals.

Embrace a hands-on approach

Trusteeship often involves more than just attending board meetings. Amy shares, “What’s been surprising is just how much you can contribute beyond your core expertise. I’ve found myself involved in everything from operational planning to fundraising discussions.” Trusteeship can stretch your thinking and skillset in unexpected ways. Being prepared to get involved in various aspects of the charity can be both challenging and rewarding, offering a chance to make a tangible difference.

Build strong governance frameworks

Effective governance is the backbone of any successful charity. She explains, “My primary responsibility is shaping and implementing strong governance frameworks. This includes structuring board meetings for maximum impact and contributing to the development of our three-year strategic plan.”

She adds, “It’s an exciting challenge, and if we successfully deliver on our ambitions for the next three years, we’ll have built something truly lasting. And along the way, if I grow and learn from this experience, whilst having some fun, then that’s an added bonus!”

Collaboration is key

A small but committed board can achieve great things through collaboration. Amy explains, “We take a ‘divide and conquer’ approach—each of us playing a vital role in driving the charity’s mission forward.” This ensures that all aspects of the charity’s operations are covered.

“Build strong relationships—effective trusteeship is about collaboration, and a strong board relies on diverse perspectives and trust.”

Make a meaningful impact

The ultimate reward of Trusteeship is seeing the influence of your efforts. Amy shares, “The biggest reward is knowing that the work we’re doing as a board is laying the groundwork for the charity’s long-term success.” This sense of accomplishment is what makes the role so special.

By aligning with your values, leveraging your professional skills and focusing on effective governance, you can make a significant impact. Amy concludes, “Enjoy the experience! It’s a chance to make a real impact while developing leadership skills that will benefit your own career as well.”