Caroline Rush will resign from her CEO role at the British Fashion Council in June 2025, concluding a 16-year career.
- Her leadership saw the BFC’s revenue more than double, tackling major challenges like Brexit and Covid-19 with agility.
- Rush successfully launched the BFC Foundation, which has since generated £4.3 million to support designers.
- She played a pivotal role in establishing the Institute of Positive Fashion, advocating for environmental and social innovation.
- BFC Chair David Pemsel will lead the search for her successor, extending his term to ensure a smooth transition.
Caroline Rush has announced her intention to step down as CEO of the British Fashion Council (BFC) come June 2025, ending what will be a noteworthy 16-year tenure. Her departure marks a significant transition for the organisation, which has thrived under her leadership. A dedicated search for her replacement has been initiated, led by Egon Zehnder, with BFC Chair David Pemsel extending his term to facilitate a seamless handover.
During her time with the BFC, Rush steered the organisation through transformative periods, including the challenges posed by Brexit and the global Covid-19 pandemic. Under her guidance, the BFC’s revenue experienced substantial growth, more than doubling during her term. Her strategic vision also led to the fusion of two charities to form the BFC Foundation, focusing on nurturing young talent in the global fashion industry. Since 2020, this initiative has distributed £4.3 million to support designers.
Rush’s influence extends to her founding of the Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF), which drives progressive industry programmes centered around innovation in sustainability, social responsibility, and circular fashion. This initiative underscores a commitment to fostering an environmentally conscious and socially responsible fashion industry.
Acknowledging Rush’s contributions, BFC Chair David Pemsel emphasised her dynamic leadership and relentless support for British fashion on the global stage. Pemsel’s decision to prolong his chairmanship until the end of 2025 aims to ensure stability and continuity in leadership as the council seeks Rush’s successor.
Rush has left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, crafting initiatives such as the #FashionsFuture five-point plan. This strategy, devised ahead of the 2024 elections, seeks to galvanise government support and investment in the fashion sector, highlighting its potential to drive UK economic growth through innovation.
Caroline Rush’s impactful leadership at the BFC sets the stage for a promising new chapter with her forthcoming successor.
