Corporate liveryman spotlight: Lora Velkova

Our corporate members and corporate supporters represent some of the most significant companies from across all sectors within the UK furnishing industry.

Corporate membership provides opportunities for leading businesses from the trade to support our charitable activities, get involved with civic events and network with other members.  Each corporate gets to elect three representatives to be admitted as corporate liverymen and act as the main points of contact being the business and livery.

Herman Miller, a recognised innovator in contemporary interior furnishings, work chairs, healthcare solutions, and technologies and services, has been a corporate member since 2016.

In the second in a series of spotlight articles on our corporate members, corporate liveryman Lora Velkova, HR manager at Miller Knoll, discusses what they have got out of membership.

What initially attracted you to The Furniture Makers’ Company?
I was drawn by The Furniture Makers’ Company’s strong reputation as a leading industry organisation that not only supports the business side of furnishing but also champions skill development and charitable work. To contribute to the community of support The Furniture Makers’ Company fosters for the design and furnishing sectors. Joining The Furniture Makers’ Company has reaffirmed our commitment to the industry and provided a broader platform for our team to engage, learn, and contribute.

How did you first learn about the Company, and what made you consider becoming a corporate member?
I was referred by my HR and managing director.  The prospect of joining as a corporate member was appealing because it aligned with mine as well as the company’s mission to push for innovation and design excellence, providing us a platform to exchange ideas and collaborate with like-minded companies. I hoped membership would open doors for collaboration, industry insight, and professional development opportunities, especially in networking and charitable initiatives within the furnishing sector.

What benefits or opportunities have you gained from being a member?
Membership has provided valuable industry insights and networking opportunities, insights into industry trends, and access to events that help us stay connected to developments in both the business and charitable facets of furnishing. The charitable initiatives are especially meaningful, as they support skills training, career pathways, and help individuals in need within our industry, helping to ensure a more inclusive, robust workforce. The Furniture Makers’ Company offers targeted networking opportunities that connect us with relevant professionals in design, manufacturing, and distribution, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.

How does the Company’s mission resonate with your company’s own values?
The Furniture Makers’ mission closely mirrors our own values of quality, innovation, and responsibility. The Company’s dedication to supporting the industry while giving back aligns with our ethos.

Membership aligns well with our commitment to sustainable and innovative design, as well as our goal of enhancing the well-being of our customers and employees. The Company’s focus on excellence and community engagement is a perfect fit with our values. The Company acts as a unifying force in the industry, bringing together diverse businesses and providing essential resources, guidance, and advocacy to elevate standards and encourage ethical practices.

How important is the charitable aspect of the Company to you?
The charitable work is incredibly important. It reinforces the values of social responsibility that are central to our business and helps to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals in our industry.

How would you describe the community within The Furniture Makers’ Company?
It’s a supportive, collaborative community, driven by a shared passion for advancing the industry and supporting one another.

For more information, go to www.hermanmiller.com/en_gb/