The British Fashion Council (BFC) has recently made significant changes to its board in order to enhance its expertise and develop a new strategy to support the creative businesses and the fashion industry as a whole. This decision comes as the BFC acknowledges the numerous challenges faced by the industry, including sustainability concerns, the cost-of-living crisis, rising expenses, and economic instability caused by the war in Ukraine. In order to overcome these obstacles, closer collaboration within the industry is crucial.
Caroline Issa, the Chief Executive and Fashion Director of Tank, Editor of online magazine Because, and an active member of the BFC Press Committee, is among the individuals appointed to the board. Alongside her, Ciara Byrne, Vice President of New Business Innovation at Condé Nast, and Lynda Petherick, Head of Retail for Accenture in the UK and Ireland, have also joined as non-executive directors.
These fresh additions will be working alongside the existing board members, which include David Pemsel as Chair, Caroline Rush as CEO, Laura Strain as COO, and non-executive directors Jamie Gill, June Sarpong, Scott Morrison, and Sian Westerman. Justine Simons also serves as a Board Observer.
David Pemsel, the Chair of the BFC, expressed enthusiasm for the new appointments and highlighted the additional support they will provide to Caroline Rush and her team. The new members will contribute to refining the BFC’s strategy, with a particular emphasis on supporting creative, innovative, and sustainable businesses. The ultimate goal is to enable these businesses to thrive in spite of the challenges ahead while fostering knowledge sharing within the industry.
By expanding its expertise and welcoming individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, the BFC aims to strengthen its position as a key figure in the fashion industry. Through the collective efforts of the board members, the BFC hopes to navigate and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the fashion world. It is essential for the organization to provide the necessary support and resources to help businesses adapt and succeed.
Useful links:
1. British Fashion Council’s Official Website
2. Vogue’s Directory of Fashion Designers
