BFC explained CEO Rush will be stepping down after 16 years at the helm but will continue to lead the organisation while the search for her successor is underway, in accordance with the governance of the non-profit.
She joined the BFC in 2009 and has led the organisation through significant change providing a blueprint for fashion councils to support emerging talent around the world.
The BFC noted that her focus on designers has been instrumental in developing "pioneering, world-class programmes" that have elevated British creative talent. Under her leadership, the BFC noted that its revenue has more than doubled.
BFC chair David Pemsel said: "Caroline is a fantastic industry leader and has relentlessly championed British fashion globally for the past 15 years. During her tenure, she has remained dynamic and agile whilst navigating some of the most challenging times for the industry. On behalf of the industry, I want to thank her for her work, her passionate support and dedication. In support of her decision to step down next year, I will extend my term as chair to the end of 2025 and lead the search for her successor to work with the BFC leadership team to continue to put the fashion industry front and centre, building the respect it deserves."
The BFC also revealed that ahead of the UK's general election earlier this year, Rush developed #FashionsFuture — a five-point plan for the government. This plan outlined key priorities and potential solutions focused on rallying support and investment for the fashion industry gaining recognition for its impact and ability to innovate and drive growth for the UK.
Rush said: "I couldn’t be prouder of what we at the British Fashion Council have achieved and how we have adapted to constant innovation and change. The resilience and creativity of our designers and industry is exceptional as we witnessed throughout London Fashion Week and I have huge respect for this dynamic community. I know first-hand that when the community comes together it can achieve what is sometimes thought to be the impossible.
"The brilliant team at the British Fashion Council are a joy to work with, as are the many supporters, advisors and friends. After 15 years in service to the industry, I am ready for a new challenge. Having built the organisation’s resources back to better than pre-pandemic levels, it is in a great position to continue its essential and incredibly important work with new leadership and a new chapter. This isn’t a goodbye as I will continue to lead and push for excellence over the next nine months until my successor is found and a handover is in place and will always be on hand to support an organisation I adore."
The BFC added the search for a new CEO is being led by business management consultancy firm Egon Zehnder.
In April the BFC hosted its fourth annual Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF) Forum to explore how to accelerate a circular fashion economy and net-zero efforts in the UK by 2030.
