In an industry where craftsmanship and heritage often intersect with modern production demands, the role of human resources professionals extends far beyond traditional administrative duties, encompassing the unique challenges of talent retention, skills development, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Recognizing this specialized need, the British Furniture Association’s (BFA) HR Forum has rapidly established itself as an indispensable platform for collaboration, and after celebrating a successful inaugural year, it has announced a significant transition in its leadership. The forum has appointed Laura Buckley, Senior People Business Partner at DFS, as its new Chair, while Kat Crowshaw, Human Resources Manager at Peak Converters, steps into the role of Vice-Chair. This new leadership duo takes the reins from Sarah Jane Hutchinson of Whitemeadow Upholstery, whose foundational efforts were instrumental in shaping the group’s mission to unite HR leaders from the retail, manufacturing, and supply sectors of the furniture industry, fostering a unique environment for sharing invaluable professional insights and experiences.
A Vision for Collaborative Growth
The appointment of Laura Buckley as Chair brings a dynamic and diverse perspective to the forefront of the forum’s next chapter, reflecting a career path that underscores adaptability and a deep understanding of people management across various sectors. Buckley transitioned into the human resources field in 2013 after a successful career in hotel management, subsequently gaining extensive experience in the fast-paced telecommunications and manufacturing industries. This varied background equips her with a multifaceted approach to the specific challenges faced within furniture manufacturing. Buckley noted that she “jumped at the opportunity” to lead the forum, driven by a firm belief in the critical need for such a dedicated space. She emphasized that the furniture sector contends with a distinct set of operational and personnel issues, making the creation of a network for like-minded professionals to exchange expertise a “no-brainer.” Her vision centers on elevating the group’s already productive conversations, steering them toward actionable strategies that address pressing industry concerns such as skills shortages, succession planning, and the integration of new technologies on the factory floor.
Complementing this vision is the new Vice-Chair, Kat Crowshaw, whose robust background in the manufacturing sector provides a strong foundation for advancing the forum’s objectives. With significant experience at prominent companies, including Toyota Manufacturing UK, Crowshaw brings a wealth of knowledge in operational excellence and best practices in human resources management. She is deeply passionate about fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support among her peers, viewing the forum as a powerful vehicle for building a resilient network that can collectively champion the future of the furniture industry. Crowshaw aims to leverage the platform to share proven strategies for employee engagement, training, and development, recognizing that a skilled and motivated workforce is the cornerstone of innovation and growth. She credits the guidance of past leaders and mentors for her own professional journey and is committed to creating a similarly supportive environment within the BFA HR Forum, ensuring that members feel empowered to tackle challenges and seize opportunities together. Her focus on building a strong community promises to reinforce the forum’s role as a vital resource for HR professionals across the entire sector.
Fostering Skills and Strategic Partnerships
The forum’s practical value was vividly demonstrated during its most recent meeting, which served as a testament to its commitment to providing tangible, industry-specific learning opportunities. Hosted at the facilities of Lebus Upholstery, the event offered attendees more than just a networking session; it provided a comprehensive and immersive experience. The day included a detailed factory tour, allowing HR leaders to observe production processes firsthand and gain a deeper appreciation for the operational context in which their policies are implemented. This was followed by an insightful presentation from Hannah Hockley, who outlined the extensive skills development resources available through FIESTA, a key partner in addressing the industry’s training needs. Further enriching the agenda, Sarah Dawson of WEBS delivered a focused session on the critical importance of creating effective apprenticeship and training programs, offering practical guidance on structuring initiatives that attract new talent and upskill the existing workforce. The meeting culminated in a collaborative group discussion centered on skills and training, allowing members to share their own challenges and successes in a confidential and supportive setting.
A Foundation for Continued Advancement
The strategic direction and ongoing success of the forum received a strong endorsement from BFA Managing Director Phil Spademan, who highlighted its crucial role in empowering HR professionals to guide their businesses through an era of constant evolution. The forum was created to be a vital support system for navigating everything from new regulatory requirements and technological advancements to persistent recruitment challenges. The leadership transition marked a pivotal moment, celebrating the foundational contributions of Sarah Jane Hutchinson, whose vision and dedication were instrumental in establishing the forum as a trusted and respected entity within its first year. Under her guidance, the group had successfully created a collaborative space for problem-solving. With the appointment of Laura Buckley and Kat Crowshaw, there was strong confidence that this momentum would not only continue but accelerate, as their combined expertise was set to drive the forum’s agenda forward and deliver even greater value to its members and the wider furniture industry.
