Laura Weir joins the BFC as CEO in April, succeeding Caroline Rush after 15 years of leadership
Key Takeaways:
• Laura Weir, currently executive creative director at Selfridges, will assume the role of BFC CEO on April 28, 2025.
• Weir brings extensive experience in media, retail, and fashion, having held leadership roles at Selfridges, ES Magazine, Elle UK, and Drapers.
• She aims to strengthen British fashion through creative support programs, sustainability efforts, and global partnerships.
• Outgoing CEO Caroline Rush steps down after 15 years, leaving the BFC with record financial growth and an expanded international presence.
• The BFC’s focus will continue on responsible growth, innovation, and global amplification through events like London Fashion Week and The Fashion Awards.
The British Fashion Council has announced the appointment of Laura Weir as its new chief executive officer, effective April 28, 2025. She will take over from Caroline Rush, who is stepping down after 15 years of leadership. Weir currently serves as executive creative director at Selfridges and has held notable roles at Elle UK, Drapers, and ES Magazine.
Her arrival comes at a pivotal time for the Council, which aims to deepen its support of British fashion talent and continue driving industry innovation. Weir described this as an exciting and transformative period for the sector, highlighting her commitment to nurturing creative talent, advancing sustainability, and building global partnerships to ensure continued growth. She also emphasized the need to strengthen pipelines for emerging designers, promote representation and inclusion, and future-proof the industry through collaborations with government and private sectors.
Under Caroline Rush, the British Fashion Council grew significantly, reporting revenues exceeding £12 million in its latest fiscal year. Rush has been praised for modernizing the Council’s operations, bolstering its funding, and elevating London Fashion Week and The Fashion Awards to global prominence during her 15-year tenure, which included navigating challenges from Brexit to the pandemic.
David Pemsel, chair of the British Fashion Council, said that Weir’s deep industry knowledge and strategic vision would be instrumental in shaping the future of British fashion both at home and overseas. As the Council approaches its 40th anniversary in 2024, it intends to maintain its focus on responsible growth, sustainability, and global amplification, continuing efforts through the Institute of Positive Fashion and London Fashion Week, both of which foster innovation and champion international talent.
Weir expressed enthusiasm for working closely with designers, industry leaders, and other partners. She sees the opportunity to advance the Council’s legacy of creativity, diversity, and craftsmanship as a privilege and looks forward to helping guide British fashion toward its next chapter.