Helen Hookway Election Statement

Proposer: Harriet Armstrong-Jelfs

Seconder: Katrina Callow

Statement: 

I have a wealth of experience in the interior design industry from junior through to head of studio. I have worked all over the world, across six continents, often delivering projects from the UK, managing complex supply chains and logistics. Much of my work has been in high end residential design, including 8 years for a well-regarded practice in New York, this included city apartments as well as homes throughout the US and Caribbean. I’ve also delivered multiple commercial projects such as country and golf clubs, and large office projects. I now work on the UK diplomatic estate, producing spaces overseas that both supply duty of care to staff as well as promote British soft power. As a leader I influence design direction and mentor; as a manager I drive teams to deliver to time and budget. 

In my role as Head of Design for FCDO Services, I champion the best of British design, working with small and medium sized businesses across the UK to design and manufacture beautiful pieces for UK embassies and ambassadors’ residences across the world. I lead teams of interior designers and architects, working together to produce cohesive and fully coordinated designs, with client and user requirements and value for money as drivers. I promote technical skills and professionalism within interior design, encouraging recognition of the added value interior design brings to all kinds of projects.

I operate within a senior leadership team and am well versed in strategic planning and corporate financials but still maintain my design work, delivering interiors projects from concept to completion. This allows me to retain an understanding of the day-to-day challenges we all face as we navigate client relationships, manage suppliers, logistics and budgets.

As a director, I would like to focus on the BIID professional pathway, including the important work to take forward the apprenticeship scheme. As the manager of an architectural apprentice and working within an organisation taking on many apprentices annually across the construction disciplines, I’ve seen the benefits to both employers and individuals, and would be a vocal advocate for developing this initiative for interior design. This will be a key step to improving diversity in the industry.

I’m already involved in government thinking around changes to furniture and furnishings fire safety regulations and would like to work with BIID members to make sure that our views are heard. 

I’m keen to share my experience of working in various sectors of the industry globally and would look to mentor and arrange CPDs with suppliers who can make navigating international work easier.

I have had a fantastic career in interior design so far and would like the opportunity to contribute to give back and help others succeed if I can.