Mums in Tech ft. Shikha Merchant

As part of MotherBoard’s ‘Mums in Tech’ series, they caught up with Shikha Merchant, Principal Architect, Customer and Channels at Royal London Group.

The purpose of the ‘MotherBoard’ content series is to highlight incredible working mums within tech & data, as well as individuals and businesses that are supportive and progressive within their approach to creating more inclusive tech & data teams for women.

Firstly, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your current role?

I have over 17 years of experience in Engineering and Technology, specializing in disruptive innovation within Financial Services sector. I am currently leading Enterprise and Solution architecture for Digital Transformation(Customer and Channels Platform) for Royal London Group. As a creative and passionate technologist I thrive to drive business success through continuous learning and innovative architecture solutions.

Outside of work, I am married and a proud mum of two wonderful children (13-year-old boy and 8-year-old girl) who mean the world to me. I love spending my personal time with family and friends; whether it’s hiking on Snowdon in the middle of winter, going for walks or introducing my children to my childhood games I once enjoyed.

If you could sum up what it’s like being a working mum in tech in one sentence, what would it be?

Its like being a superhero without a cape- constantly switching between solving complex tech challenges and managing the beautiful chaos of motherhood.

“Balance is ongoing process rather than destination.”

How do you find the balance between your career and motherhood?

Balance is ongoing process rather than destination. I prioritize ruthlessly, set boundaries and embrace flexibility – learning both technology and strong support system to ensure I’m present for my work and my family.

What has been your greatest challenge as a working mother in tech?

The biggest challenge has been juggling the logistics of two different school schedules while making myself available for work – only to realize I’ve missed that one event my child truly wanted me to attend. No matter how well I plan, there’s always that tough moment of knowing I cant be everywhere at once.

“No matter how well I plan, there’s always that tough moment of knowing I cant be everywhere at once.”

What skills have you developed as a mother that have helped your work life?

Motherhood has strengthened my ability to multitask, prioritize under pressure and stay calm in chaos. It has also improved my emotional intelligence- helping me lead with empathy, communicate effectively and foster a supportive team environment.

When you were returning to work, what one thing helped you / would have helped you the most?

I had a 3 year break after my first born and returning to work meant returning after a career break. What helped me most was the strong support and trust I had built with my previous line managers; I was able to return to the same organisation – or to people who had worked with me before – knowing they trusted my skills and experience. Having a strong network and a strong support system is what helped me transition smoothly back into work.

“You are the role model for your children and your team. Build a strong support network, seek out allies and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.”

What do you feel should be the top priority for employers who want to support working mothers better?

The top priority should be building a trusted environment – one that values outcomes over hours. An organisation that fosters allies at every stage of mother’s career can make a huge difference. Whether its managers who advocate for flexible policies, peers who help navigate career growth, having that network is crucial for success and retention.

Any final words of advice for other mothers in the Tech Industry?

Embrace the journey – its about making it work in the way that suits you. Everything will not always be perfect, but that’s ok. You are the role model for your children and your team. Build a strong support network, seek out allies and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

MotherBoard is a Business Charter, Community & Event Series, driving tangible change for mums working in the tech industry.

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