Hello, I’m Briar Lloyd.
I am a demand and merchandise planner, supply chain and logistics specialist, and materials innovator. I focus on planning and managing categories that support product and business strategy, and the product creation process from design to end consumer and consults with key cross functional teams to ensure a balance of brand, commerce and environmental impact. I enjoy fusing function and aesthetics, and using mindful, ethical, circular, and regenerative practices to create innovative and commercial product design outcomes.
I enjoy combining logical, numerical, planning and logistics work with creativity. I have experience in materials innovation focusing on supply chain and creating new structural compositions inspired by nature to support a circular economy, such as biodegradability and natural waterproofing and durability. As well as more creative surface design developed through mixed-media, often fusing together analogue hand techniques with digital technology.
Earlier in my career I worked in shared value, sustainability, and corporate and government affairs in Australia and New Zealand, where I had a significant focus on the role of business in society. I have extensive experience in stakeholder relations, project management, corporate strategy, U.S-Australia relations, communications, and have worked on initiatives across city, state, and federal governments in the Asia-Pacific region. I see this time as my on-the-job M.B.A, which has given me a good nous for business operations and helps me to add value and deliver creative and innovative projects to a high standard. I aim to combine this experience with my current focus in the materials and product field.
Raised in Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, New Zealand, and the U.K, I have always enjoyed learning about different cultures, working with people from different backgrounds, and building an understanding of the different nuances of various regions which has been a huge influence in my work. I studied and worked in Melbourne, Australia for eight years, and in Denmark in 2020. In my upbringing I was exposed to living in large scale urban centres, as well as rural areas growing up on a farm in New Zealand. This appreciation for both cities and nature has been a significant influence throughout my life and my work.
I graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2012 with a BA in Media + Communications and Politics + International Studies. In 2021 I graduated from Auckland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Design in Textiles, and a Supply Chain Management business minor. In 2020 I completed a study program at VIA University in Denmark in the Bachelor of Engineering - Materials Science + Product Design program. I completed further study to build on my earlier work experience and up-skill with new technical expertise to create solutions in the materials and surfaces field.
In 2017 I was recognised by the Harvard Kennedy School of Government as an Emerging Leader, undertaking their study program with other leaders from around the world. In 2019 I was a finalist for the Dorothy Waxman Prize for my Bio-Sequins design, with my work exhibited in NYC as part of New York Textile Month. In 2021 I founded Broida, inspiring mindful making through cross-stitch embroidery products, education, and community to support an increased adoption and appreciation for handwork.