28 October 2026 Bringing skills and expertise to the Board of Trustees: Catherine Murphy on why she enjoys being part of The Talent Foundry team

Catherine Murphy, Chief Financial Officer at the Oxford Street Development Corporation, is a trustee at The Talent Foundry (TTF) and brings with her both a strong financial skillset and a background in teaching. Social Mobility was always close to her heart, and she jumped at the chance to get involved and support our vision three years ago. Having advanced in her career, she felt it was time to give back and wanted to help build a fairer future and give young people the chance the thrive.

Being a trustee gives Catherine the opportunity to take a step back and focus on TTF’s operational trajectory. Each trustee brings a unique perspective, offering a broad range of support throughout the calendar year.

Being a trustee enables me to add value. It’s about strategic oversight.

For Catherine, a standout moment each year is attending the House of Lords reception to celebrate partnerships, impact and alumni achievements. To hear directly from young people about what a difference programmes can make, whether they are now studying politics at university or pursuing an apprenticeship, showcases the outcomes of the TTF team’s work.

I’m always unbelievably impressed when I hear young people speaking in front of a room full of people about their successes and how their confidence has grown.

Hearing about positive partner outcomes and the mutually beneficial experiences shared by volunteers is another reason Catherine is so proud to be involved with TTF.

The trustee to peloton pipeline

This year, Catherine took part in our Milan to Bologna Cycle Challenge, wanting to deepen her relationship with partners and supporters. The jump from strategic oversight to getting on a bicycle might seem large, but Catherine was eager from the get-go.

I’m always trying to help raise TTF’s profile and do anything I can to support the charity. I enjoy meeting some of the people TTF works closely with, and it was a great opportunity to enjoy good food and weather.

When not busy pedalling hard to keep up with her speedy companions or navigating the Italian roads, Catherine enjoyed the supportive atmosphere of the bike ride. Experience levels were mixed in the peloton, but seeing everyone come together and work as a team before enjoying a refreshing beverage each evening was a highlight.

Catherine hopes that the funds she and her fellow cyclists raised will make a difference. Reaching more young people and expanding the scope of TTF’s activities is key - fundraising can be an essential lever, supporting cross-cutting initiatives.

The cycle challenges are about reaching more young people, deepening partner collaborations and increasing awareness of TTF. The more companies we can work with, the more opportunities we can offer.

To those considering getting involved

Catherine knows first-hand the importance of TTF’s work. Her lived and professional experience has shown her the challenges facing young people today and the difference that the right kind of support and opportunities can make.

What would Catherine say to those considering supporting TTF’s work?

Absolutely do it. You will get so much more from it than you could ever expect. The feedback from young people is universally positive. Working with a smaller charity means the impact is tangible.

Catherine is passionate about the importance of supporting the next generation even in a harsh economic climate. Young people are the future and will bear the brunt of the current situation. Offering time and energy to support their progression has never been more important.

What does TTF mean to Catherine?

As a society, each TTF programme takes us one step closer to social mobility and giving everyone the kinds of opportunities they deserve.

The more people that know about TTF, the more young people can receive support. Ringing the bell for the charity is just part of Catherine’s role as a trustee, and we are incredibly grateful to her for being so generous with her time and expertise.