When Lily Pan first walked into the NEOZ office in November 2000, she expected to stay six months, just long enough to gain some work experience in accounting. Fresh from a highly structured role at the Australian War Testing Authority, the transition to a small design company housed in a two-storey heritage building was a shock. But something about the place stuck.
Over the next 25 years, Lily would go on to become the longest-serving member of the NEOZ team, taking on roles across the business—bookkeeping, purchasing, reception, delivery, and even production. Today, she continues to support procurement and accounting, holding a unique perspective on how the company has evolved.
Before her well-earned retirement, Lily took some time to reflect on the milestones, challenges, and people that have shaped her journey—and the spirit of NEOZ.
Lily, Jackie and Peter with the NEOZ team back in 2003
What was it like in the early days at NEOZ? What were some of the biggest challenges?
When I started, NEOZ was at a critical turning point. The main product back then was a low-voltage track lighting system, invented by Peter Ellis. But after the 2000 Sydney Olympics, demand dropped, and the company was developing a new product—cordless lamps. Between 2001 and 2005 were the most difficult years. Funds were tight. But it was also an exciting and challenging time to be part of.
As a family-owned business, how has that shaped your career and NEOZ’s growth?
In a family business, there’s more freedom to focus on values rather than shareholder interests. Customers often speak directly with decision-makers, and we can act quickly on feedback. There’s no bureaucracy. It feels like a small community, and we navigate economic ups and downs together. That’s a great advantage.
What are some projects or moments you are most proud of?
First, the Ritz London project—it was the first time we worked with solid raw brass using sand casting. Second, Jumeirah Beach in the UAE marked a turning point in our export business. I helped manage it through a letter of credit worth around $100,000. Third, the Hotel Westin Bund Center in Shanghai—it’s very hard to export lighting to China, so completing that was a major achievement.
The Rivoli Bar at The Ritz London (2001)
So you helped take NEOZ beyond Australia?
Yes! It happened organically. Launching our website was the turning point. It was created with limited resources by our talented designer, Jackie, whom I must honour here. From there, global exports began.
Who influenced you most at NEOZ? Any advice that stuck with you?
Definitely Peter Ellis and Jackie. As designers, they had a vision grounded in empathy—they cared about the people using the product. Peter would say: “Just do the right thing, the simple thing, and do it the best you can.” Jackie once said that profit is a byproduct of great design and craftsmanship. I carry that with me.
Is there a product that feels especially tied to your contribution?
Yes, the older models that used nickel-hydride batteries—fully made in Australia. Some of those lamps are still running after 25 years. People flew to Sydney just to replace the battery! More recently, I really like the Cooee, Victoria and Albert ranges. They're responsive and efficient—powered by a single battery.
Ice 4 Nickel-Hydride powered Cordless Lamp at Harvey Nichols Landmark, Hong Kong (2005)
What do you think is the essence of lighting design?
Lighting is both an art and a science. Functionality must come first—you can’t talk about aesthetics without it. Our goal has always been to make our lamps simple to use, durable, and long-lasting. I still remember lighting up one of our cordless lamps at home and being moved to tears. We spent a full year developing that LED. It had beautiful colour rendering. You could feel the love and care that went into it.
How do you see lighting influencing people’s moods or the feel of a space?
I think table lamps are becoming more important. People are moving away from big ceiling lights. Households are smaller, more private. A cordless table lamp becomes a companion—bringing peace and intimacy, especially in dining or hospitality environments.
What will you miss most about NEOZ?
The culture. It feels like family. I’ll miss the R&D meetings, the team huddles, and the creative problem-solving. I loved brainstorming and hearing everyone’s input—it was open, collaborative, and energising.
Watch Lily's full interview here
Is there anything else you're proud of that you haven’t mentioned?
I’ve never been an ambitious person—I see myself as a helper. During difficult times in the early 2000s, I stepped in wherever I was needed. Especially when cash flow was tight—that was my most important role. It wasn’t always pleasant, but I’m proud I helped us through it.
Do you have any words for your colleagues, customers, or the NEOZ community?
To my colleagues: every department has its challenges, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. I live by the idea of doing your best for the next 24 hours and leaving the rest to God. That’s helped me get through every day.
To our customers: NEOZ’s mission and vision have lasted 40 years—it’s in our DNA. I believe that legacy will continue through the next generation of designers and makers here. For many customers, we’re more than a supplier—we’re a partner. There is more great design to come, so stay with us.
