Design Nation is thrilled to welcome back a DNA alumnus to the team. Janis Lo was a valued member of DNA for over 8 years before branching out to other fields in the industry. But her passion for designer furniture and the DNA brands has enticed her back. Janis is taking on the role of Client Relationship Director and we couldn’t be happier to have her back on board.
We had a quick chat with Janis to find out more about what she’s been up to and what she’s looking forward to.
Q. Janis! Welcome back! You were at DNA for 8 years previously before moving on to other things. What have you been up to?
Thank you! Great to be back!
After so many years in furniture, I was keen to try something new. I had previously worked in lighting, textiles and office furniture, so I decided to have a go at flooring. For me, it’s always invigorating to learn new things, new approaches.
My previous role at DNA was very much a people management role and I was missing the direct client contact aspect of sales – I like collaborating with clients, working with them to find solutions, it’s so fulfilling to create with them, and I missed that element.
Q. What is it about DNA that has enticed you back?
Design Nation has always been a customer focussed business, and I’ve always admired its solution-service approach. The team is well-connected in the industry, and they’ve always understood designers’ needs. This aspect still exists today and it’s this focus that really appeals to me.
With its extensive range of European and Australian brands, Design Nation is also very versatile which means I can really work with clients on providing a holistic solution for their projects.
The other reason I was thrilled to come back to Design Nation was the chance to work with the new Managing Director, Bryan Rutter. Bryan was previously a shareholder in the business, but we never actually worked together. Now, Bryan is actively involved in the business, and this is really exciting – he has more than 25 years in the furniture game and has so many fresh ideas. His belief in, and enthusiasm for, the Design Nation brand is really inspiring – he's an astute businessman, and he understands the importance of keeping DNA and its brands in the Australian market.
Q. What do you love about DNA and its offering?
I think the best thing about Design Nation’s offering is its versatility. The range spans not only a variety of spaces and applications, but also different price points – and yet, the quality is never compromised. In most cases, DNA can offer a holistic solution from its collection of Australian and European brands, it brings big name designers to local projects and can provide custom solutions. There is nothing the team enjoys more than working closely with designers to provide the best outcome for their projects.
Q. What are you most looking forward to with DNA and its future in the market?
Well, first up, I have to say reconnecting with the team – old and new. Their dedication to their clients has remained steadfast through thick and thin. As mentioned earlier, I’m also looking forward to working with Bryan. He’s already implementing new ideas that are going to benefit our clients, so I know I’m going to learn a lot working alongside him, shaping the future of Design Nation in the market to ensure it adapts and remains relevant.
I think I can inject some new energy into the business as well, maybe some fresh ideas from the experience I’ve gained over the last few years, as well as helping the team grow into something bigger and better than before.
And, to be honest, no matter where I’ve been, furniture has always been a personal passion, so I’m also looking forward to diving straight back into it, having fun proposing beautiful products to our designers and creating inspiring spaces with them.