Barbara Genda
West Hoathly,United Kingdom
Summary
Commercially astute professional with over 20 years' experience in the luxury bespoke furniture and joinery industry. Having built and led a successful bespoke furniture business, combines commercial acumen with a detailed understanding of design, joinery construction and project delivery. Recognised for balancing creativity with practicality, refining designs through technical expertise and delivering solutions that meet both aesthetic and commercial objectives. Confident working with private clients, architects, interior designers and contractors on high-value projects, building trusted relationships through sound judgement, clear communication and an uncompromising commitment to quality.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work history
Property Developer & Project Manager
Self-employed
2023.01 - 2026.08
- Managed residential development projects from acquisition through sale or refinancing.
- Planned design development, then coordinated financing and procurement with stakeholders.
- Monitored budgets, cashflow, and programmes while resolving daily design issues.
Freelance Project Manager & Design Consultant
Self-employed
2021.01 - 2023.01
- Delivered bespoke furniture and joinery commissions for established clients.
- Translated design intent into technically resolved furniture and joinery packages.
- Coordinated quotations, workshop manufacture, and site installation requirements.
Founder & Operations Director
Barbara Genda Furniture
London
2006.01 - 2018.01
- Established and led a luxury bespoke furniture business specialising in fitted cabinetry and interiors.
- Built long-term client relationships through referrals, repeat business and exceptional service.
- Led projects from initial brief through design, manufacture, installation and handover.
- Refined designs, resolved technical challenges and delivered projects valued up to £300,000+.
- Managed specialist manufacturers, suppliers and installers to ensure exceptional quality.
- Directed all commercial, operational and financial aspects of the business.
Operations Manager
Room Collection Ltd
Dundee & London
2001.01 - 2006.01
- Supported furniture mail-order growth by handling design, sourcing, production, logistics.
- Sourced products and manufacturers in central Europe, coordinating technical design and transport.
- Opened London retail showroom, managing lease, refurbishment, design, and launch.
- Oversaw catalogue production photography, supporting marketing activity and campaign materials.
Tax Accountant
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Aberdeen
1998.01 - 2001.01
- Completed ATT tax specialist training, working in personal and expatriate taxation and gaining a strong grounding in accounts preparation, taxation and VAT.
Education
BA - Law
University of Wroclaw
ATT Tax Specialist Training -
PricewaterhouseCoopers
AberdeenBA - English Law
University of Dundee
Skills
- High-Value Project Delivery
- Commercial & Financial Management
- Design Development & Technical Delivery
- Luxury Bespoke Joinery & Interiors
- Client, Architect & Contractor Liaison
- Supplier & Subcontractor Coordination
- Technical Problem Solving & Site Support
- Cost Control & Margin Management
- Team Leadership
- Quality Assurance & Customer Experience
Timeline
Property Developer & Project Manager
Self-employed
2023.01 - 2026.08
Freelance Project Manager & Design Consultant
Self-employed
2021.01 - 2023.01
Founder & Operations Director
Barbara Genda Furniture
2006.01 - 2018.01
Operations Manager
Room Collection Ltd
2001.01 - 2006.01
Tax Accountant
PricewaterhouseCoopers
1998.01 - 2001.01
BA - Law
University of Wroclaw
ATT Tax Specialist Training -
PricewaterhouseCoopers
BA - English Law
University of Dundee