Caroline Rush, the long-serving CEO of the British Fashion Council (BFC), is stepping down after an impactful 16-year tenure.
- A search for Caroline Rush’s successor is now underway, ensuring continuity in leadership at the BFC.
- Under Rush’s leadership, BFC’s revenue more than doubled, marking a period of significant growth and adaptation.
- The BFC Foundation was established, remitting £4.3 million to support designers globally since 2020.
- Caroline Rush has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives focused on industry innovation, particularly in sustainability and resilience.
Caroline Rush has announced her decision to step down as CEO of the British Fashion Council, effective June 2025. The news marks the end of a transformative era under her leadership, during which the BFC navigated significant challenges such as Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. A search for her successor is already underway, ensuring a smooth transition.
During Rush’s 16-year tenure, the BFC experienced substantial growth. Revenue more than doubled, a testament to her strategic vision and leadership. The establishment of the BFC Foundation under her guidance has played a critical role in supporting emerging designers, having remitted £4.3 million to aid their development since 2020.
The Fashion Awards, a key fundraising initiative for the BFC Foundation, has grown in prominence and scale, further bolstering the BFC’s ability to support the fashion industry. David Pemsel, chair of the BFC, praised Rush’s contributions, stating her leadership was dynamic and agile during some of the industry’s most challenging periods.
Rush also pioneered the Institute of Positive Fashion, focusing on environment, people, and circularity – crucial areas for the industry’s sustainable development. Her efforts exemplified the BFC’s forward-thinking approach towards innovation and resilience.
In anticipation of the 2024 elections, Rush devised #FashionsFuture, a strategic plan aimed at increasing governmental support and recognition for the fashion industry’s impact on the UK economy. “I couldn’t be prouder of what we at the British Fashion Council have achieved,” Rush stated, reflecting on her tenure.
Rush emphasized the collective resilience and creativity within the BFC and expressed her readiness for new challenges while ensuring a seamless transition to new leadership. Although stepping down, she remains committed to guiding the BFC until her successor is appointed, maintaining her dedication to the organization.
Caroline Rush’s departure marks the end of a distinguished chapter at the BFC, leaving a robust foundation for future growth.
