On January 6, the British Fashion Council (BFC) announced the appointment of Laura Weir as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 28, 2025. Weir will succeed Caroline Rush CBE, who has led the BFC for 15 years. In her new role, Weir will collaborate with designers, industry partners, and government bodies to fulfill the BFC’s mission of advancing British fashion through world-class programs. Rush is set to officially step down at the end of June 2025, ensuring a smooth handover and the conclusion of the fiscal year.
Laura Weir brings over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, with a deep knowledge of British designers and a proven track record at the executive level in retail and editorial sectors. Her career is marked by strong relationships with renowned and emerging designers, industry leaders, and the media, along with a strategic perspective to address the complexities of the fashion industry.
David Pemsel, Chair of the BFC, commented in a statement, “Her experience gives her an understanding of the complexities of the fashion industry ecosystem, and the strategic foresight to be able to lead positive transformation and initiatives to drive the next chapter of the BFC both domestically and globally, supported by a brilliant team.”
Weir expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I am honoured to lead the BFC’s next chapter at an exciting and pivotal time for the British fashion industry. I look forward to working with the BFC team to champion culture and creativity to catalyse growth for British fashion, both domestically and globally. I will focus on support for emerging and established designers and strengthening our pipeline of British creative talent.”
Currently, the BFC promotes British fashion globally through international events such as London Fashion Week and The Fashion Awards. It also spearheads initiatives like the Institute of Positive Fashion to drive sustainable development and positive change across the industry. Weir’s leadership is expected to further accelerate these efforts, shaping a dynamic and sustainable future for British fashion.