Customer Success Leader @ Spryker | ex Meta, eBay, Tripadvisor, founder @ Roleshare (Techstars ‘21) | eCommerce | WorkTech | Future of Work
The closing of Roleshare is a chapter I never wanted to write, but it’s one I face with a heart full of gratitude and eyes fixed firmly on the future. From our very first job share pairing to making Gartner’s Hype Cycle for HRTech, we’ve been on a remarkable journey. We dared to imagine a world where job sharing wasn’t just a concept but a transformative force for the future of work. I want to extend my deepest thanks to my incredible co-CEO, Dave, your wisdom, courage, and unwavering commitment have been a guiding light. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner. To our team, investors, advisors, partners, customers and each and every one of you who believed in us and joined us on this journey - your support, your encouragement, and yes, even your skepticism - they’ve shaped us, pushed us, and inspired us. Though Roleshare’s story ends here, the mission does not. The essence of what we strived for lives on in every professional who seeks balance, in every leader who values diversity, and in every organization that embraces innovation. Let’s continue to explore, challenge, and shape the working world together. Here’s to the next chapter, and to never losing sight of what’s possible.
I was so sad to hear the news today. Sophie Smallwood 🚀 and Dave Smallwood you have had such a huge impact and made such a difference in the world of jobshare. In my view, it remains completely under-utilised which is incredible because it brings employee they flex they crave and employers the complete resourcing solution they think they need. It works on so many levels and cancels many negatives of flex working. Roleshare was here at the right time, employers are lagging. Thank you for your inspiration and moving the needle on this much needed work movement
Very sad to read this. Just yesterday I saw a job round the corner from me. 40-hours a week, 6 days, full time. A perfect fit for a jobshare role but no mention. It was depressing. Jobshare is such a gift but it takes a step away from the grindstone and a shift in perspective to see it. Most employers cannot see it as it sits outside their narrow field of vision. A sad day but, as you say, not the end.
Thank you for all you ve done. We share the same passion. I ve created Two for one Job with an initial focus on Belgium market and a potential collaboration with other European markets starting with Holland. Could we discuss and assess whether we could take it from where you re leaving it ? All the very best
Sophie and Dave, your energy, drive, grit and passion cannot be matched. The concept was simple, but innovative. The mission is so relevant and necessary. If I say you are before you time it sounds trite. The reality is the world and the leaders that appear to rule it are still stuck in yesterday, without the compassion, humility and ambition to imagine a better world like you do. I know we will stay connected and I know you will both go on to change the world. Thank you for everything and keep flying high x 🚀
I loved the concept. What do you think were the biggest hurdles? I assume more on the employer than employee side?
Roleshare has made an incredible impact and being a first mover is the hardest job in the world. The world of work is still built for the 1950s, when men were breadwinners and women were care-givers. We need to break and re-build the system of what every work place is expected to offer! I am so sad that the business is closing and it's disappointing that more HR decision makers didn't embrace this incredible service sooner. Wishing you and the team the very best and you should be so very proud of what you achieved in such a short space of time.
Since the first moment we met I’ve been so happy to know Roleshare existed; and that YOU were leading it forward. Like many of the other comments I commend you and your team for bravery, courage, vision and execution. I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of rolesharing and I firmly believe as companies evolve they will take advantage of this, to the betterment of society. You will have been part of why that comes to pass. Can’t wait to see what you do next 🪄🪄
Well done for all the work that you have put into this project, the impact that you have made, and the movement that you have helped support. When we start a business and then close a business a new door opens and all that we have learned comes with us on our new journey. Wishing you the best of luck.
So sorry to hear this Sophie - as this was (and is) a super important unmet need that so many people and businesses would benefit from. Your passion, resilience and vision will no doubt be applied to great success on your next adventure - for which I wish you both all the luck and support for the future. Todays business conditions are tough for every startup - but hopefully a new phoenix will rise. Sending you both best wishes. Please drop me a note if I can help with anything. A
Recruitment Manager & Partner at Charity People | Mum | Advocate for all things Charity, Inclusive Recruitment, Flexible Working and EDI | School Governor 💚
1yI’m so sorry to read this. You should be very proud of what you have achieved. I am so passionate about job sharing having done two job shares when my children were very young. It is still my preferred flexible working pattern as a way to truly balance work, career progression and being there for my children. I will continue to champion job sharing at Charity People and work with Tiger de Souza MBE to influence sector wide change. Wishing you all the very best ✨