April 28, 2025. Laura Weir succeeds outgoing CEO Caroline Rush CBE, who has headed the company for the previous 15 years and announced her departure last year. Rush will leave the company in June 2025, at the end of the fiscal year 2024-25 and with plenty of time for transfer.
David Pemsel, BFC Chair said “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.”
Laura will lead the BFC in her new position, collaborating with designers, business associates, and governmental organizations to advance the organization’s goal of promoting British fashion. The non-profit is focused on three main areas: innovation through the Institute of Positive Fashion and preparing businesses for positive change; global amplification through London Fashion Week presented by 1664 Blanc and The Fashion Awards presented by Pandora; and responsible growth through its active community that supports creativity and helps the industry grow and create opportunities for talent.
Weir is an experienced fashion journalist who has contributed to British Vogue, The Sunday Times, and ES Magazine, the London Evening Standard. In January 2023, she began working for the British shop Selfridges, where she now leads the marketing, communications, and creative departments.
Commenting on joining the BFC, Weir 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 “
