New York & Lisbon

Carlos João Narciso Rocha Parreira

MSc | Committed to Real-World Sustainability & Global Collaboration

Driven by a deep commitment to sustainable practice, my 15-year journey in business, design, and policy has focused on driving systemic change and championing regenerative development. I launched Lusitano Studio, supporting rural Portuguese artisans and gaining international recognition. I have contributed to sustainable economic models, engaged new generations in global sustainability efforts, and deepened my understanding through work with the SDG Lab at the United Nations.

Combining an entrepreneurial mindset with a dedication to impactful change, I am passionate about addressing pressing sustainability challenges, including climate change and equitable development.

Select Experience

2023 - 2024

Program Officer
United Nations Geneva, SDG Lab

Supported the development of sustainability impact tools aimed at evaluating policies' long-term impacts on future generations, emphasizing intergenerational equity.
Co-authored published article discussing the transition to economic models that prioritize systems change and regenerative development for sustainable futures.
Led ideation in workshop with Netherland’s Ambassador for Youth, Education and Work, authored a reflective piece on the importance of youth in equitable global practices.

2016 - Present

Founder & Creative Director
LUSITANO STUDIO - Sustainable Home Decor Brand

Launched the sustainable brand, a home collection crafted by community- and family-owned studios and solo artisans primarily in rural areas of his native Portugal.
Fostered relationships with 24 stores around the world, including Goop in NY, Chiltern Firehouse London, and National Museum of Women in the Arts in DC.
Coordinated with press on features and editorial, both digital and print, including Architectural Digest, Monocle Magazine, and Harper’s Bazaar.

2014 - 2015

Business Development
Dering Hall - Design Digital Platform

Established Design Week presence in New York, Paris, and London, including strategy and direct outreach to industry audiences.
Led Brand Ambassador recruitment and management to support team efforts.
Developed key relationships with luxury brand and designer studio partners in North America and Europe for the high-end digital platform.

2011 - 2014

Senior Client Manager
Tender Creative - Digital Strategy, Design and Technology Agency

Managed digital project strategy, design, and development efforts with luxury brands that include Ralph Lauren, Rolex, and M·A·C Cosmetics.
Built and maintained profitable relationships with key decision makers, primarily in the luxury and design space.
Managed RFP development processes and other new business efforts in collaboration with agency leaders.

2008 - 2011

Assistant Showroom Manager, Jonathan Adler

2006 - 2008

Assistant to the Gallery Director, Daniel Reich Gallery

Education

2022 – 2024

Bard College - Graduate Center for Environmental Policy
Master of Science in Climate Science and Policy

Recipient: Milners Fund Fellowship in Population Studies
”For serious commitment to the study of the interrelationships among population and demographic shifts,sustainability, and poverty alleviation in the Global South.”

Thesis:
“Autonomous Sustainable Development:
Harnessing the Global South’s Inherent Strengths”

2019

Pratt Institute - Department of Graduate Architecture
Architecture Immersion Studio, Dept of Graduate Architecture and Urban Design

2006 - 2010

Michael Graves College - Kean University
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and Branding

Skills

Web native with a keen interest in sustainability, policy, and emerging technologies.
Proficient in ArcGIS, Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite and Omniplan.
Excellent communication and team skills. Pragmatic and personable in leadership style.
Fluent in Portuguese and English, Citizen of USA and Portugal.

References

Available upon request.