Spotlight on… Sophie Pentony

Meet Sophie Pentony - a communications partner who believes that clarity changes everything. Working with smart/tasking on projects that require thoughtful internal comms, Sophie helps organisations bring their people with them through change, growth and uncertainty. When she’s not shaping messages, she’s likely on a tennis court or thinking about her next meal.  

For those who haven’t met you yet - what’s your role with smart/tasking? 

I partner with smart/tasking on projects that need strong internal communications, clear storytelling, or thoughtful messaging. When a client engagement includes a comms challenge - whether that’s a change programme, a new initiative or simply a need to communicate with more clarity - that’s where I step in. 

I also support smart/tasking with their own marketing, which gives me a unique perspective of the business.  

What drew you to internal comms?  

People, I’ve always said it’s people. Internal comms is where you get to understand what really makes an organisation work - and it’s not just about the charts and the plans, it’s all about the humans. 

I love how a well-shaped message can shift mindset and where helping someone feel informed or understood can completely change how they show up at work.  

What do you enjoy most about the work you do? 

Taking something complex, really messy or emotionally charged, and turning it into something people can actually absorb. Many organisations struggle with expressing themselves in a way that feels human and helpful. I love being able to bridge that gap. And honestly, I just enjoy people, and my curiosity is endless - which is a handy trait in this job.  

What do you enjoy about collaborating with the smart/tasking marketing team? 

It stretches a different part of my brain - the zoomed-out, big-story, brand-wide part. Crafting tone, building narratives, shaping campaigns…and building relationships too, it’s a joy and the team is brilliant to work with.  

What’s your philosophy when it comes to great internal comms? 

Keep it human, simple, and consistent. 

If a message feels corporate, confusing or overly engineered, people tune out; I know I do. I really believe that internal comms should feel like a conversation - honest, warm and clear - especially when communicating big change. I always think ‘what’s in it for me?’, when writing for an audience.  

What do you get up to outside of work? 

Tennis - which keeps my competitive streak alive - and food. Cooking it, sharing it, discovering it… food is absolutely my love language, and if I’m not writing or reading, I’m usually planning a meal. 

What’s one thing you wish more organisations understood about internal comms? 

That it’s not an add-on, it’s a multiplier. Clear, consistent communication reduces friction, speeds up decision-making, and gives teams confidence. It’s one of the most efficient ways to improve performance, alignment, and culture. 

Finally… what’s one word your colleagues would use to describe you? 

I hope it would be “warm”, or maybe “curious”. But it could also be “hungry,” depending on the time of day!