British Fashion Council names Selfridges executive Laura Weir as new CEO

The British Fashion Council has named Laura Weir – currently the executive creative director of Selfridges – to be its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the organization announced Monday
 
Weir, who succeeds Caroline Rush, begins her new job at the BFC effective April 28, 2025. She 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,” the BFC said in a release.
 
Recognized as a leader in the global fashion industry, Weir brings a knowledge of British designers, executive board level experience in retail and editorial industry leadership, the BFC added.

“I am honored 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 catalyze 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,” said Weir.
 
“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 prioritizing representation and inclusion,” continued the departing Selfridges exec.
 
“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,” Weir added.
 
In her new role, Weir will oversee the BFC, working with designers, industry partners and government bodies to further the organization’s mission of championing British Fashion through pioneering its world class programs that unlock and elevate creative talent.
 
Founded in 1983, the BFC controls London Fashion Week, one of the four key catwalk seasons in fashion, along with those in Milan, New York and Paris.
 
The not-for-profit BFC 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. It has also worked hard on global amplification through London Fashion Week presented by 1664 Blanc and The Fashion Awards presented by Pandora.
 
Added David Pemsel, BFC Chair: “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.”