Joan Johnston has for over 25 years been engaged in both creative and commercial roles across British luxury textiles, working with internationally renowned luxury brands in the US, Italy, France and Japan.

Fulfilling roles ranging from Creative Lead, Board Director, Online Business Owner and University Programme Leader, Joan has acquired a wealth of knowledge from developing initial concepts through the design process to experiential brand focused promotion and sales delivery.

With a particular passion for sustainability and premium product made in the UK, Joan has developed a new type of insulating fabric using the by-product of the cashmere industry and launched her new brand www.avainnes.com in Sept 2019.