Caroline Rush has announced her departure from the British Fashion Council in June 2025, marking the end of a 16-year tenure.
- Rush’s leadership saw the BFC’s revenue double and navigated significant challenges like Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.
- She spearheaded the formation of the BFC Foundation, remitting £4.3 million to support designers since 2020.
- David Pemsel extended his term as BFC chair to lead the search for Rush’s successor.
- Rush’s legacy includes the Institute of Positive Fashion and a five-point plan for the industry’s future.
Caroline Rush, the long-serving CEO of the British Fashion Council (BFC), has decided to step down from her position in June 2025. Her announcement initiates the search for her successor as part of the not-for-profit’s governance, ensuring continued leadership.
During her tenure, Rush guided the BFC through numerous challenges, including Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in the doubling of the organisation’s revenue. Under her direction, several impactful initiatives were launched, including two charities that merged to form the BFC Foundation, which has disbursed £4.3 million to support designers and their businesses since 2020.
The Fashion Awards, a significant source of funding for the BFC Foundation, have increased in both impact and scale under Rush’s guidance. Her commitment to the fashion industry has been recognised by many, including BFC chair David Pemsel, who praised her dynamic leadership and is extending his term to oversee the transition to new leadership.
Rush has also been instrumental in founding the Institute of Positive Fashion, which focuses on industry innovation, especially concerning environmental, social, and circularity issues. Ahead of the upcoming election in June 2024, she developed a five-point plan, #FashionsFuture, to secure government support and investment for the fashion industry, emphasising its potential for growth and innovation.
Reflecting on her service, Rush expressed pride in the accomplishments of the BFC, acknowledging the resilience and creativity of designers showcased during London Fashion Week. Looking ahead, she is enthusiastic about the future of the BFC, confident that it will continue to thrive with new leadership.
Caroline Rush’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for the British Fashion Council as it seeks new leadership to build on her legacy.
