The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced the appointment of Laura Weir, previously editor of ES Magazine and current executive creative director at Selfridges, as its new CEO.
Weir takes on the role on April 28, 2025, following Caroline Rush’s 15 year tenure at its helm. Rush exits the business in June this year, following a two-month handover period.
“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,” Weir said in a statement. “I will focus on support for emerging and established designers and strengthening our pipeline of British creative talent.”
It comes at a difficult time for the British fashion industry, which has been hit heavily by the ramifications of Brexit as well as changing customer habits and spending in the luxury sector.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Weir as the incoming CEO of the BFC. Laura has worked alongside established and emerging designers, creative talent, industry leaders and press throughout her career over the past two decades,” said David Pemsel, BFC Chair, 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 took on the editorship of the Evening Standard’s weekly supplement in 2015, a position she held until 2020. She has also held senior editorial positions at British Vogue and The Sunday Times.
She continued: “The BFC will continue to deliver an enhanced international industry presence, and I look forward to forging partnerships with industry and government to future-proof the sector and its significant contribution to the British economy, while addressing critical challenges such as environmental responsibility, and prioritising representation and inclusion.”
“It is a privilege to champion the diversity and ingenuity that defines British fashion, and to lead a mission which will inspire generations to come,” she said.
As well as overseeing growth and innovation in the British fashion sector, Weir will oversee key events in Britain's fashion calendar including London Fashion Week and the annual Fashion Awards.
