Lord Rose has been appointed the first patron of the Fashion Retail Academy, enhancing its industry connections.
- Lord Rose began his career at Marks & Spencer in 1972 as a management trainee and has held numerous prestigious roles since.
- The Academy, established by major retailers, has successfully trained over 13,000 students for the fashion retail industry.
- Lord Rose’s appointment aligns with the Academy’s mission to inspire the next generation of fashion professionals.
- The Academy’s new campus at Electra House on Moorgate is set to open in September.
Lord Stuart Rose has been appointed as the inaugural patron of the Fashion Retail Academy, a move expected to fortify the educational institution’s ties with the industry. His storied career began in 1972 at Marks & Spencer where he first joined as a management trainee. Rose’s journey through the retail landscape saw him managing significant roles, including his tenure as CEO of the Burton Group and later, Marks & Spencer. His contributions to the sector are well-recognised, having been knighted for his services and efforts in corporate social responsibility, and subsequently elevated to the House of Lords in 2014. Moreover, his accolades include the Drapers’ Lifetime Achievement Award received in 2018.
The Fashion Retail Academy, since its inception in 2005 with the support of major retail figures such as Marks & Spencer, Next, Tesco’s F&F, and Arcadia Group, has made significant strides in training students for the fashion retail industry. The institution boasts an impressive statistic with 89% of its graduates either securing employment or pursuing further education within six months post-graduation. This success underscores the Academy’s pivotal role in equipping future professionals with necessary skills and knowledge.
Rose expressed pride in becoming the first patron, articulating that the Academy is integral in shaping the retail sector’s future by fostering young talent. He stated, “I am honoured to become the first patron of the Fashion Retail Academy. The academy plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry by equipping young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. I look forward to continuing to support the Fashion Retail Academy’s mission and helping to inspire the next generation of fashion retail professionals.”
Kim Longman, the chair of the Academy, conveyed enthusiasm regarding Lord Rose’s new role, highlighting that his unparalleled experience and passion for nurturing new talent align seamlessly with the Academy’s objectives. Longman remarked that this appointment is a notable advancement for the institution as it seeks to expand its influence within the fashion retail sector.
The prestigious role bestowed upon Lord Rose comes at a pivotal time as the Academy prepares to inaugurate its new campus at Electra House on Moorgate in September. This development signals a period of growth and evolution for the Academy, poised to further its impact on the industry with enhanced facilities and enriched learning opportunities for its students.
This strategic appointment marks a significant milestone for the Fashion Retail Academy, poised to strengthen its influence and industry connections.
