Latest News
Sharon Robinson - Women In Leadership
Name: Sharon Robinson (née Roots)
Role: Software Engineering Manager
Company: Kingfisher Plc
Please tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been working in Software Engineering for almost 30 years. Initially, I spent several years writing and testing code for a variety of applications, including military communications, data security, the PS4, and aviation. Over time, I was promoted to Technical Team Lead, where I was responsible for the overall design and quality of software, as well as managing a team of engineers.
For the past 15 years, I’ve taken on more hands-off roles, focusing on project management and building engineering teams both in the UK and offshore. Since 2022, I’ve been working as an Engineering Manager for the Kingfisher Group, overseeing around 80 engineers as we work on a 5-year project to upgrade the Screwfix website, mobile apps, and back-office systems. Alongside my line management responsibilities, I am also involved in resource planning, troubleshooting, and ensuring our deliverables are on time and of high quality.
At Kingfisher, we’re encouraged to take on 'side of desk' roles. Currently, I’m the co-chair of the Neurodiversity Network and run the T-Level placement and Apprenticeship programmes for our Yeovil office. My passion for inclusivity led me to collaborate with Yeovil College, where I run a monthly coding workshop for Year 7 & 8 girls to inspire them to pursue STEM subjects.
Although my parents still live near Maidstone, I’ve been based in Somerset for over 20 years. I live on a smallholding with my husband, several ponies, and my 14-year-old son. In my spare time, I help run a local Cub pack and sing with the Rock Choir.
Why did you decide to go into your chosen field?
After leaving Invicta in 1991, I took a gap year and then went to Plymouth to study Geography, intending to become a hydrogeologist. However, during the course, I discovered a love for working with satellite data and emerging computer systems, which led me to pursue a master's in Computer Science. Though I initially planned to work in Geographical Information Systems or for the Met Office, I found my true passion and talent in writing code.
What qualifications and work experience did you need to reach your current position?
9 GCSEs and 3 A Levels from Invicta
BSc (Hons) Geography, University of Plymouth
MSc Computer Science, University of Hertfordshire
Scrum Master Certification, Scrum Alliance
Career timeline:
1996–2000: Graduate Software Engineer & Team Lead, IBM Services
2000–2006: Senior Software Engineer & Technical Team Lead, BAe Systems
2007–2012: Lead Software Engineer, Automated Test Tools, Computer Associates
2012–2015: Senior Software Engineer in Test & Scrum Master/Tech Lead, SN Systems (Sony Entertainment)
2015–2017: Project Manager & Scrum Master, Jeppesen UK (Boeing)
2017–2022: Software Development Lead, Project Manager & Scrum Master, EKM Global Ltd
2022–Present: Engineering Manager, Kingfisher Group Plc
What do you enjoy most about your job/role?
When I am coding, I love immersing myself in the problem-solving process. My neurodiverse brain allows me to hold the entire system design in my head, and I enjoy working through challenges to determine what components are needed. Creating a system that works as intended gives me immense satisfaction.
In my current role, I enjoy the variety and multitasking involved—balancing budgets, troubleshooting issues, and helping others develop their careers. I thrive when I can dive into a struggling team, support the engineers, and guide them to find their own solutions.
Are there any obstacles you had to overcome in your career?
When I first started, I was the only woman in a project team of over 40 people. Although the ratio has improved slightly (now about 1 in 10), Software Engineering remains a male-dominated field. I quickly learned to adapt and became more extroverted to ensure I was treated equally, earning the roles, salaries, and promotions I deserved.
At Kingfisher, I have again found myself in a senior role with few women around me. My focus has shifted to supporting the next generation, helping them to bring their true selves to work from day one.
Why do you think it is important to have strong female representation in your industry?
Computer systems need to be designed and implemented by the people who use them, which means our teams must be diverse. For example, I once pointed out to my husband that the charging port on our electric car was inconveniently placed at the front, as many women drive into parking spaces for easier access to the boot. He hadn’t considered this, but it’s an issue that affects half the population. Diverse perspectives like these improve the functionality of the products we create.
What advice would you give to those wanting to take a similar career path?
Take Maths and Physics! Software Engineering is typically a graduate career, though apprenticeship-based qualifications are becoming more common. Many in our field are neurodiverse, with people who have ASD, ADHD, or Dyslexia often finding an aptitude for software implementation. They feel at home in our inclusive teams.
There are fantastic opportunities for women in the industry, with many companies actively recruiting female candidates. Be bold, and apply for roles you want, even if you think you’re underqualified. Often, as a woman, you’re more likely to get an interview due to the drive for diversity, and once you’re there, push aside imposter syndrome and confidently show you’re the best person for the role.
