She works at The National Lottery Community Fund as their Senior Solicitor, supporting organisations that deliver social and cultural impact across the UK. Previously, she was General Counsel at The Old Vic, and Legal Affairs Manager for the London-based theatrical production company Cameron Mackintosh Ltd. Earlier in her career, she was a Senior Associate at Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) and a Solicitor at Addleshaw Goddard. 

Caroline remembered completing a test at school that recommended a career in law, but it wasn’t initially appealing. Instead, she explored a variety of different jobs after university. But in her mid-20s, while sharing a house with other lawyers, the decision to join the profession finally clicked.

Working as an in-house counsel, Caroline describes her role as being akin to a GP: handling everything from quick fixes to much more complex issues that might take months to diagnose and resolve. This variety, combined with the opportunity to work on meaningful projects at The National Lottery, alongside exceptional people who are building bridges across different sectors of society, is something she finds particularly rewarding.

Caroline opted to become a solicitor, partly due to a fear of public speaking when she was younger – although she has since developed this skill, becoming more at ease in front of an audience as her confidence grew and she became less concerned about what others think. But she also knew she ultimately wanted to work as an in-house counsel, so becoming a solicitor was the right route for her.

To succeed in the legal profession, certain qualities are prerequisites: resilience, diligence, persuasiveness, critical thinking and a strong work ethic. Above all, good communication and people skills are essential – the ability to connect with others, build trust and convey ideas are fundamental.

Caroline also emphasises the importance of learning to trust your instincts. Early in her career, she relied on diligent preparation and a highly methodical approach, but she now recognises the value of gut instinct, and the insight that comes from stepping back and reflecting on a problem.

As a trustee of the Watermill Theatre, Caroline draws on her legal expertise and passion for the arts to support the theatre in continuing to thrive both creatively and commercially.