Staff Profile: Sarah Farrell – General Counsel and Director of HR
How long have you worked at Soulpepper, and what has your job consisted of lately? I’ve been at Soulpepper since the summer of 2015. I am General Counsel and Director of Human Resources. “General Counsel” is another term for “Director of Legal Affairs”. My job consists of all things legal and HR-related for Soulpepper. On a micro level that means drafting and revising agreements, giving legal opinions on things like intellectual property rights, and providing recommendations with respect to regulatory requirements. I am also involved in staff recruitment and evaluation, and in developing and implementing workplace policies and procedures. I’m always happy to chat with Staff about questions, concerns, challenges and accomplishments!
What kinds of projects have you been involved in outside of work?
I’m very honoured to have been chosen to participate in the Federal Cultural Human Resources Council’s new ‘Talent to Lead’ mentorship/leadership program. I just finished a tenure as President of the Toronto Fringe Festival’s Board of Directors. Prior to joining Soulpepper I had my own entertainment law practice specializing in theatre, film and tv. In the slightly more distant past I was a cast member at Second City, a founding member, Producer and performer with the Toronto Festival of Clowns, and a Producer and performer with a multitude of other stage and tv shows.
When you’re not at work, what are you doing?
I have 2 very active toddlers at home, so I spend a lot of time running around after them! Oh…and I’m taking a painting class, which I was nervous about, but I’m really loving it!
What is something we might be surprised to learn about you?
I studied clown and bouffon for several years with John Turner and Mike Kennard (Mump and Smoot), and Karen Hines (Pochsy, Crawlspace, etc.). I’ve been told that my bouffon work is “side-splitting” (I can only assume in a good way). I really love making people laugh, it’s such a joy.
What do you love about working at Soulpepper?
Everyone laughs at my jokes! Seriously though, I love our team. I get to work with some of Canada’s most accomplished, passionate and delightful theatre professionals.