The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced that its honorary Chairman, Harold Tillman CBE, will extend his term through 2012.
Harold was appointed Chairman on 24th January 2008 taking over from Sir Stuart Rose. Under his guidance the BFC has become an effective promotional body for the industry through clarity of objectives and vision. He has established the first full time management team for the organisation through the appointment of Caroline Rush to CEO and Simon Ward as COO. He played a lead role in moving London Fashion Week to Somerset House, personally negotiating with brands such as Burberry to return to London.
The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund was established as a registered charity with Harold securing financial support from key retailers and partners. He has maintained close relationships with the Mayor of London each year successfully bidding for support for British talent and London Fashion Week.
In 2010 Harold delivered the Value of Fashion report, defining the British fashion industry for the first time and assessing its true value to UK PLC. In 2011 he established the China Britain Fashion Alliance and has supported the development of the London show Rooms programme bringing in global partners to promote British talent overseas.
There remain many opportunities ahead and Harold will continue to drive these forward and for the future as well as secure a successor who will continue to grow the profile of the sector globally and the businesses within it.
Support for this term extension was secured from key stakeholders including representatives from media, government, BFC patrons and sponsors.
Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council said “The BFC is immensely grateful to Harold for the incredible hard work he has put into the role. He has been an inspirational and visionary leader and under him the BFC and London Fashion Week have significantly expanded and grown in global stature. On behalf of the BFC board, patrons and sponsors I thank Harold for his ongoing support”.
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London said “Harold's retail flair and business acumen are the perfect foil for the astonishing creativity of our fashion designers. As well as maintaining London Fashion Week's position as one of the most influential international showcases for design, he has been pivotal in the BFC's efforts to nurture up and coming designers. With fashion playing a key role in our celebrations for 2012, Harold will help ensure London's status as a big hitter in the global fashion stakes.”
Chairman of the British Fashion Council is an honorary role with an initial three year commitment, whilst several chairman have served for four years, this extended term will make Harold the organisation’s longest serving Chairman to date.
For press enquiries please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com
Image: Harold Tillman CBE, Sarah Mower MBE and Chris Moore (Catwalking).