Chikako Hanaoka

Chikako Hanaoka is an accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience in the global textile business. Currently serving as Managing Director and Director of Operations at swatchbook Japan since May 2022, Chikako focuses on advancing sustainability through innovative 3D material technology. Prior to this role, Chikako was the Director of Business Development at Jhane Barnes Inc from June 2021 to May 2022, where efforts concentrated on upcycling textile and apparel products, including a project to convert apparel waste into green hydrogen energy. Additionally, Chikako held the position of Business Development Director at SynZenBe from January 2018 to June 2021, facilitating sustainable practices within the textile supply chain. From April 1991 to June 2021, Chikako served as President of Sustainable/Fashion Apparel Textile and Partner at Katsu New York, Inc., contributing to sustainable fashion initiatives.