As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we take a moment to highlight the remarkable journey of Julie Roberts, our new Procurement Director and the second female member of the SLS board.
Following in the footsteps of Meggin Shevill, who became the first female board member in 2024, Julie’s appointment in 2025 reinforces our commitment to gender representation and inclusivity.
We sat down with Julie to discuss her career, the significance of female leadership, and her advice for aspiring professionals.
Read our interview below!
Tell us about your journey at SLS…
Julie Roberts: "It’s been fast paced- the last 16 years have seen the company grow at such a rate and it’s been exciting to be a part of it. I started in Customer Services managing a team of 20, before focussing on Key Accounts – which later extended to include Corporate Accounts.
Prior to that I worked in various roles within the distribution market - Procurement (attaining MCIPS qualification), Marketing, Sales, and Quotes & Tenders.
The opportunity that I have been given as Procurement Director is an exciting one - it gives me the chance to bring together all aspects of my career over the last 30 years to drive procurement excellence at SLS with the support of my team."
Why do you think it's important for women to be represented at board level?
Julie Roberts: "It’s hugely important for women to be represented at board level. Not only do we bring different perspectives to the table, but we bring different life experiences which can only contribute to a wider range of options when strategic decision making.
Promoting gender equality at the highest level improves the culture of any company and sets a great example, not only within SLS, but to our customers and marketplace as well. It sends a great message to anyone looking for a career with SLS."
What advice would you give to young women starting out?
Julie Roberts: "Keep learning new skills – take every opportunity that presents itself to broaden your knowledge and experience.
- Build strong relationships within the business and within the market - attend networking events and use the support network around you.
- Take advice and guidance but don’t be afraid to question or challenge.
- Face challenges head on and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone - you might hit some bumps in the road (the right path isn’t always the easiest!), but with the right support you will attain your goals – and that feeling is immeasurable.
- Be true to yourself – challenge “the norm”.
- Learn from your mistakes.
- Remember that we are stronger together - be a driver in a culture where everyone feels empowered to succeed.
- Remain focussed and patient - hard work and experience over time will get you to your goal.
- And finally - take ownership of your own path - stop and reset sometimes to ensure you’re moving in the right direction."
What has been your proudest achievement at SLS?
Julie Roberts: "Working with individuals within my team to coach, drive, support and empower them to reach their goals - and to seeing them achieve these."
A quote that inspires you:
“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
"This quote by Michelle Obama is a testament to the boundless potential of women to lead, innovate, and achieve anything they set their hearts on." shared Julie.
Julie’s journey to leadership is an inspiration to women at all levels of the company and beyond. On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate her journey and the powerful message it sends.
Happy International Women's Day from SLS!