Your Interview Robyn Dyde

How long have you been involved in the lighting industry in total?

I first joined the lighting industry in December 2013, so just shy of 10 years ago. However for the last 4 years, I worked in business development roles whilst I was focusing on my family life and raising my three children but I am so glad to be back!

Have you always been involved in the manufacturing side or have you come from another part of the industry?

I have always been in the manufacturing side. I really enjoy my role and whilst I love the lighting industry, I couldn’t imagine working in another part of it. I love being at the forefront of product innovation and really enjoy the wide variety of projects I get to be a part of.

Do you feel that there is a wider diversity in sales, manufacturing and marketing over the last 20 years?

I would say yes, the industry is becoming more diverse especially with newcomers to the industry. I know lots of women who are progressing in their careers, yet I don’t know many retiring so that has to be a big sign that the diversity is growing. I think the design community is a lot more proactive in diversifying the industry, from manufacturers, to lighting designers to architects, there are now panel discussions and workshops which inspire and promote inclusion, which is amazing to see.

What reasons do you think there are so few women working for manufacturing companies? What obstacles do women come up against?

I would say yes, the industry is becoming more diverse especially with newcomers to the industry. I know lots of women who are progressing in their careers, yet I don’t know many retiring so that has to be a big sign that the diversity is growing. I think the design community is a lot more proactive in diversifying the industry, from manufacturers, to lighting designers to architects, there are now panel discussions and workshops which inspire and promote inclusion, which is amazing to see.

How do you think more women can be encouraged into this side of the lighting industry? What can manufactures do to encourage a diversity of applicants for roles in sales and product development for example?

I think the lighting industry needs more awareness overall; I feel the lighting industry is vastly overlooked. It is a great industry, you can add such value to projects and make a big impact, one that I don’t think people consider or even realise is possible. At ERCO, lighting is the 4th dimension of architecture and awareness of the process and possibilities needs to be raised. That is a responsibility that I feel lies within me. I feel it is key to get in with our future professionals. Those that are currently student architects, lighting designers, M&E consultants, landscape architects, design consultants and other professionals I work closely with in my day to day role. As a company, we are regularly running workshops with universities, this is a great way to build awareness to the industry. Next week myself and Jim Ashley-Down, Managing Director, ERCO UK & Ireland, are presenting to interior design students at Bath Spa University on Human Centric Lighting. With the hope to educate, bring recognition of the industry and spark ideas in our future professionals. I think that is beneficial to everyone, not only women. However, by women in the industry taking action and setting examples we are showing that it can be done. With the diversity growing in the industry, I believe it will have a ripple effect, we can already see over the last 20 years more women are coming into the industry and that should hopefully only grow.

What are the positives of working for a manufacturer? What are the negatives?

For me the positives are, I am trusted as an extension of the brand, I get to work with a variety of people and by working for a manufacture I can be at the forefront of technology. Personally, I don’t like to look for negatives, I know that can sound cliché, but I see it as an opportunity for growth. I am lucky that I have only ever been welcomed into the industry and I am aware that other women may have had a different journey, but I hope through sharing my experience as a woman, a mother, a professional I can show that it is possible.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I feel it is an exciting time for women, not just in the lighting industry but across all construction industries. I echo what I said before, I believe a diverse work force is being valued. I feel it is important to note here, that I feel lucky as a woman that I haven’t had to compromise, I am professional and a mother, I can have both. I can’t say that last sentence without making a nod, to my husband and also my family, as without their support, encouragement and belief I would not be able to have both. Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of networking, put yourself out there and get out of your comfort zone.