We are delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Weir as our new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 28th April 2025. Laura Weir succeeds the outgoing CEO, Caroline Rush CBE, who has led the business over the past 15 years and announced her intended exit last year. Caroline will exit the business June 2025, closing the 24/25 financial year and giving sufficient time for handover.
Recognised as a leader in the global fashion industry, Laura Weir brings a knowledge of British designers, executive board level experience in retail and editorial industry leadership.
David Pemsel, BFC Chair said “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. 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.”
Laura Weir said “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.
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.”
In her new role, Laura will oversee the BFC, working with designers, industry partners and government bodies to further the organisation’s mission of championing British Fashion through pioneering its world class programmes that unlock and elevate creative talent. The not-for-profit is focused on; responsible growth through its engaged community that advocates for creativity and collectively supports the industry to grow and build opportunities for talent; innovation through the Institute of positive fashion and preparing businesses for positive change; and global amplification through London Fashion Week presented by 1664 Blanc and The Fashion Awards presented by Pandora.