QEST Appoints Lisa Montague, CEO of Sanderson Design Group PLC, as Chair

We are delighted to announce that Lisa Montague, CEO, Sanderson Design Group PLC, the legacy luxury interior design group, has been appointed as Chair of QEST.    

Lisa joined the QEST Board of Trustees in September 2022.

With a career spanning the international fashion and luxury goods industry, Lisa’s work and focus have been, and remain, on uplifting creative talent and nurturing and supporting those breaking into the industry. Previously held positions include President and CEO of Loewe, the Spanish fashion house, where she contributed to founding the Loewe Foundation and launched the Loewe Craft Prize in 2013.

As CEO of Sanderson Design Group PLC since April 2019, Lisa has been instrumental in transforming the Group and its six brands, including relocating all brands to their historic home, Voysey House in Chiswick, originally designed by C.F.A Voysey for Arthur Sanderson. Sanderson was granted its first Warrant in 1924, by appointment to HM King George V and in 2024 was awarded a Royal Warrant by His Majesty King Charles III, 100 years since the brand first received a Warrant, reflecting Sanderson’s continued dedication to the highest quality standards, service and craftsmanship. 

Of her appointment, Lisa said, “I am delighted to step into the role of Chair of Trustees at QEST, having contributed to the charity and supported the wonderful team, led by CEO Deborah Pocock LVO, over the past three years. I am passionate about the future of craft and continued support for education as we strive to achieve and reward excellence, supporting the great talent in our communities. As the CEO of a UK PLC, designing and making interior furnishings in Britain, I champion the value of our creative industries and the global recognition of our strength. My executive and non-executive responsibilities reflect my love of design and commitment to the ongoing development of our artists and makers. I am excited by the opportunity to drive the sustainable growth of QEST, celebrating 35 years and looking to a human made future.”

Deborah Pocock LVO, QEST’s CEO said of Lisa’s appointment, “We are thrilled that Lisa is stepping into the role of Chair, continuing her work with our charity, bringing considerable experience, energy, and passion for nurturing talent and developing skills in the UK, celebrating creativity and craft.”

Lisa succeeds Ian Maclean MBE, Executive Chair, John Smedley Ltd., to whom QEST is extremely grateful for his significant contribution over the past 3 years as Chair. Ian remains as a Trustee.