Laura Weir will replace Caroline Rush CBE as chief executive officer, effective 28th April 2025

In a statement earlier today, the British Fashion Council said: ‘We are delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Weir as our new Chief Executive Officer (CEO)… 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.’ 

On the appointment, David Pemsel, who became BFC Chair in September 2022, 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.’ 

Weir, current creative director at Selfridges, has previously held writing and editing roles at Drapers, The Sunday Times and British Vogue. 

In 2015, she was appointed editor-in-chief of the London Evening Standard’s weekly supplement, ES Magazine, before heading up her own consultancy. She has also been a member of the BFC’s press committee for the past nine years.

‘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,’ said Weir, before commenting: ‘I will focus on support for emerging and established designers and strengthening our pipeline of British creative talent,’

The news comes following of the announcement of Caroline Rush CBE’s departure after a pivotal tenure at the organisation, spearheading London Fashion Week and backing the formation of the BFC foundation. 

With extensive experience of the fashion and creative industries Weir is well placed to lead the organisation in its main goals to amplify the influence of fashion here and globally; nurture new talent; invest in innovation; and grow sustainably. 

You can read the full statement here.