Board work is all about people

We asked Pippa Britton, Paralympian, Sport Wales Board member, and champion of equality in Sport to tell us why she values diversity on a Board. Here’s what she told us.

Board work is all about people.

Whether it’s working with people or making decisions that will have an impact on people’s lives. People are at the centre of what we do.

That’s why I think diversity on a Board is so important. Each one of us has something we bring to the table. We all have a wealth of life experience and passions coupled with skills picked up throughout our careers and it’s the wide-ranging backgrounds that make decision-making truly diverse and representative of the lives those decisions are going to impact upon.

Part of my value as a Board member is my life experience as a disabled person and because of this I try to get people to think about issues in a slightly different way. An example might be the issue of improving access for wheelchair users. Often these improvements don’t only have a positive impact for wheelchair users but also improve life for 80% of people in general – whether they are parents with prams, pensioners with mobility issues or toddlers with little legs. Thinking differently can make decision-making more inclusive. 

Archery has been such a big part of my life but so has the business of sport and making it more equal and diverse. I believe sport is for everyone, regardless of your background or ability. I came to the Board after starting out as an athlete representative, first at British and then at world level. I wanted to widen my experience and knowledge, so I took voluntary roles on committees which gave me invaluable experience in working with others, dealing with committee documents and agendas and sharing my views in a style I was comfortable with and that worked for others. Eventually I was appointed the role of Chair for the Board of Disability Sport Wales. The learning curve continued but the support I received from staff and the chief executive was invaluable and has definitely shaped me as a Sport Wales Board member.

Many people think the ideal Board candidate requires a business and financial head. And yes, it does help as we need to be able to make viable business and financial decisions. However, that is only one aspect of what we do. Being on a Board requires so many different skills – multitasking, problem-solving, empathy to name but a few. These are all skills that most people will use in every-day life. We also need people who can give us a glimpse into the communities that help make up Wales. We need people who can help us to understand the needs of minority communities, deprived communities and female communities so that we can open up sport and the benefits that accompany a more active lifestyle to more people across Wales.

All experience is valuable, and I personally prefer when I’m working with people who can help me to look at things from a different perspective. Whether you’re a retired athlete with a passion for equality or someone who is self-employed with a passion for volunteering with the local football team on the weekends, we all have something to bring to the table. Don’t discount your experiences and the insight you could give.

If you are interested in applying to be on the Board of Sport Wales, please follow the link for further information. Sport Wales Board positions are Welsh Government appointed. Applications close on the 22 May 2019.