Kirsten Taylor's journey into the world of print is a testament to the power of perseverance and a unique blend of creativity and leadership. In an industry often associated with precision and process, Taylor's path has been anything but linear, marked by a series of calculated steps and a quiet determination that has now become a cornerstone of her success.
Taylor's story begins with a love for the creative arts, nurtured by a personal journey that was not without its challenges. Despite a difficult VCE art teacher who doubted her abilities, Taylor's passion remained steadfast. She pursued a diploma in art and design, majoring in photography and minoring in graphic design, but found herself at a crossroads after her studies. It was a pivotal moment that led her to the world of print, a decision that would shape her future.
Taylor's entry into the print industry was serendipitous, starting with a contract marketing role at HiTech Graphics and later as a receptionist. These early experiences exposed her to the pre-press side of the business, fostering relationships and providing a glimpse into the production environment. It was also during this time that she met James Taylor, her business and life partner, further intertwining their paths.
A move into recruitment with Adecco followed, where Taylor developed skills in finance and payroll. However, her true calling lay in the world of print. She joined Taylor’d Press to manage the financial side of the business, but her interests soon expanded beyond numbers. Taylor's curiosity and determination led her to delve into the printing process, from estimating to understanding print setups, stocks, finishes, and purchasing.
A defining moment came when a print broker dismissed her expertise. Taylor's response was decisive; she enrolled in a printing apprenticeship and completed it ahead of schedule, becoming a qualified printer. This achievement marked a turning point, as Taylord Press began to focus on traditional craft techniques, including offset PMS, letterpress, and foil stamping, setting them apart from the industry's trend towards scale, automation, and digital transformation.
Taylor's leadership style is grounded in empathy, openness, and a deep understanding of human behavior. She has invested in formal study, undertaking a Bachelor of Psychology, and completed a Mental Health First Aid Certificate, further enhancing her ability to support others. This commitment to personal and professional development has shaped her leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of creating a comfortable and collaborative environment for her team.
Taylor's influence extends beyond Taylor’d Press. She has actively contributed to industry initiatives, including judging, events, and board participation, most notably as the chair of PrintEx25. Her involvement is driven by a personal and purposeful desire to support small businesses and ensure their visibility within the industry. Taylor also sees talent attraction as a critical challenge, advocating for the importance of apprenticeships and showcasing printing as a valuable career path.
Looking ahead, Taylor is committed to the future of print, particularly the traditional methods that remain relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. She believes in the enduring value of craft and is dedicated to educating and training the next generation of printers. Her ambitions continue to grow, with further study in counselling and ongoing engagement with industry initiatives on the horizon.
Kirsten Taylor's story is a powerful reminder that success in the print industry is not solely defined by technical expertise but also by the human element. Her journey, marked by persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge conventional boundaries, highlights the importance of personal experiences and the impact they can have on shaping a career and contributing to the industry's future.
