Our latest Leadership Spotlight features Pia Sharma!
Pia has extensive experience across the marketing sector, leading some of the UK’s most recognisable brands in retail, including Debenhams and Michael Kors. Pia currently oversees all Digital Marketing activities as the Head of Digital Marketing and CRM at Joseph Joseph Ltd.
In our Q&A with Pia, she discusses her career journey to date, why she loves the ‘pace’ of digital, and why ‘strong communication’ is essential for a successful team. She also provides insights into the trends to watch out for in 2025.
Read our Q&A with Pia below.
Why did you join the Digital Leaders Club?
I joined the Digital Leaders Club because I am passionate about staying ahead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. It also offers me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from fellow experts.
What's your career journey been like to date?
I consider myself fortunate in my career journey so far, as I’ve had the chance to pursue several amazing opportunities. I began in PR, but quickly transitioned to Digital, where I saw significant growth potential. My time working agency side gave me valuable exposure to various sectors before I shifted to brand-side work, which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.
I spent over five years at Debenhams, where my role evolved across all digital marketing channels, and I was lucky to collaborate with strong leaders during some challenging periods. After that, I joined MK during the pandemic, a whirlwind experience. My role quickly pivoted to leading Email and Digital Marketing in EMEA, with our retail stores temporarily closed and the focus on Ecommerce.
I had the opportunity to take on my current role at a founder-led business Joseph Joseph, where I was eager to expand my skill set further working in a different-sized business and within the Design and Homeware industry.
I am grateful that each role I have taken on has built upon the last, and I’m excited about the future and where my career will take me next.
What do you love about working in digital?
I love the pace; it is constantly evolving and there is always something new to think about or research. It is also focused on measurable results, with a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making. Every strategy and initiative is guided by analysis and insights to consistently enhance performance. It has been exciting to see how much the industry has grown since I started my career over 15 years ago.
In your view, what's the most important trait of a successful team?
I would say strong communication is essential for a successful team. When communication is transparent and clear, it helps teams to exchange ideas and tackle challenges together. Strong communication nurtures a sense of value and empowerment, which is vital for success and working towards an aligned vision. I also believe due to the agile nature of the industry; teams need to adapt to change, so adaptability.
Which digital trend(s) do you predict will dominate 2025?
No surprise, but I would say AI. AI will continue to evolve this year, and I feel more businesses will be using AI-powered solutions to automate processes and improve decision-making. There is still so much to learn about AI across all sectors that can help improve efficiency an area I am keen to evaluate and learn more about in 2025. I also believe social commerce will continue to grow.
How would your colleagues describe you?
My colleague would say I take pride in staying organized, which helps ensure that projects move forward efficiently. They would also describe me as solution-orientated and always looking at ways to solve problems. Finally, I prioritise collaboration and clear communication in any situation as it is important to cultivate a transparent and open atmosphere within teams to deliver the best results.
What's your plan for the future?
To continue the path I am on, by advancing my leadership skills and broadening my role into a wider Ecommerce and Marketing remit. I also have some exciting opportunities ahead this year, collaborating with our partners by moderating/taking part in panel discussions. I plan to actively pursue more opportunities to help build my expertise in the industry.
What would you be doing (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
I would study fine art and own or manage an art gallery! Very different indeed.
Connect with Pia on LinkedIn.
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