Meet&CoThe British Furniture Association (BFA) has announced the appointment of Richard Naylor, founder and managing partner of Hawksfield, as its sustainability consultant. In this role, Naylor will spearhead efforts to guide BFA members in adopting sustainable practices and advancing toward net zero emissions.
With over two decades of leadership experience in the UK furniture sector, including board positions at Steinhoff UK, Hypnos, and Harrison Spinks, Naylor brings extensive industry insight to his consultancy work. His firm, Hawksfield, specializes in delivering transparent sustainability solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Naylor’s academic credentials include a Master of Science degree with distinction in Sustainability and a Level 7 apprenticeship as a sustainability business specialist. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Design, focusing on circular design and materials, and serves as a fellow within multiple sustainability organizations. Additionally, he contributes as a guest lecturer on Cranfield University’s executive MBA program.
Over the next year, Naylor will collaborate with the BFA to establish a sustainability steering group and develop an online resource hub for members. This platform will feature practical tools such as policy templates, guides to combat greenwashing, modern slavery statement frameworks, and a comprehensive overview of sustainable raw materials. A dedicated blog will also be launched to foster industry-wide dialogue on critical sustainability topics.
“I am committed to supporting the UK furniture sector in unlocking both environmental and financial benefits through sustainable innovation,” Naylor remarked. “This partnership represents an opportunity to align ecological responsibility with business growth.”
BFA Managing Director Phil Spademan emphasized the association’s strategic focus: “Our mission is to elevate sustainability standards within the industry by promoting innovation, establishing best practices, and equipping members to thrive in a greener, more equitable economy. Richard’s profound expertise and deep sectoral connections make him an invaluable asset to this endeavor.”
The initiative underscores the BFA’s dedication to fostering a sustainable future, combining industry-specific knowledge with actionable resources to empower its members.
