Sophia Stovall appointed Chief Executive of Tyne Rivers Trust
We’re excited to announce that Sophia Stovall has been appointed as our new Chief Executive Officer.
Professor Richard Kirk, Chair of Tyne Rivers Trust, said, “We are delighted to welcome Sophia as our CEO and into our TRT family. Under her leadership we will build on our past achievements – protecting endangered species, reducing pollution and flood risk and mitigating climate change. Sophia will bring a new perspective and dynamic to the team and we are excited to begin working together, for the benefit of the Tyne Rivers, wildlife and all who live and work here.”
Sophia stepped into the role on Monday 1st September. She joins Tyne Rivers Trust from her previous role as Head of Development Operations at English Heritage. Her career spans influential roles at renowned cultural institutions such as The Glasshouse, Durham Cathedral, and North East Museums, complemented by non-executive board positions, strategic advisory work and contributions to tourism and heritage organisations across the region.
“The River Tyne is so much more than a watercourse,” said Sophia. “It’s history, community, economy, wellbeing and identity – the constant at the heart of our region. My mission is to help more people understand its power and potential. After 20 years of great work, we are entering a new era where protecting and enjoying our river matters more than ever.”
Sophia adds: “We already work with schools, but want to do more – particularly with younger generations. Teaching children about the importance of what you put into the water, but also inspiring them with the wildlife, the heritage and geography.”
Our strapline – “Better river, better life, better region” – captures our ambition to connect people and nature. Sophia’s appointment highlights a strategic shift to broaden the Trust’s profile and partnerships, building on its scientific expertise with her cultural and tourism background.
“This is a pivotal moment,” she added. “Water, climate and the environment are central to today’s conversations. The Tyne touches everything – business, sport, leisure, wellbeing, nature and agriculture. Join us in shaping the next decade of sustainable growth along the River Tyne – where business, culture, and the environment converge.”
That invitation extends across the whole region, she explains. “Our work spans from the urban rivers of Newcastle and Gateshead through to the rural catchments of Northumberland and Cumbria. For the future health of our rivers and communities, we’d love people and businesses to join us – to follow our work, connect through our website and social channels, and help shape the next decade of our journey as we navigate the future for our River Tyne.”
Ian Thomas MBE, Chief Operating Officer and NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said:
“Sophia’s appointment comes at the perfect time. Her understanding of culture and tourism will help strengthen the role of the Tyne in our visitor economy, while connecting communities more closely to this iconic river.”
John McCabe, Chief Executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, added:
“The Tyne is central to our economy and identity. With Sophia’s leadership, Tyne Rivers Trust can build on its first 20 years to further raise its profile, protect its future and ensure businesses and communities continue to benefit from this shared asset.”
Final words go to Sophia who reflected, “Over the years, I’ve worked at quite a few of the North East’s iconic venues, landmarks and attractions. But if you think about it, nature – and the River Tyne itself – is one of the most iconic things about the North East. The whole river feeds the history of the region. My job is to listen to what the river wants us to do, and build a vision for the next three, five, ten years.”
Sophia is keen to hear from all those interested in the future of the River Tyne. To get in touch directly, register your interest and be part of our next chapter please contact hello@tyneriverstrust.org
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