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David Pemsel, co-founder and CEO of Science Magic Inc and former CEO of Guardian Media Group, has been named chairman of the British Fashion Council.

In this role, Pemsel will support BFC’s Chief Executive Officer, Caroline Rush, in developing and implementing the non-profit’s strategy and helping build British fashion’s global profile. She will also continue her responsibilities at Science Magic Inc, a global creative and strategy firm with clients such as Versace and Glossier.

The executive sees his role as a conduit for change, saying the UK government is focused on giving the fashion industry as much importance as other ‘power’ industries such as services and manufacturing. .

His priorities are: Building bridges with other fashion industry governing bodies and the cultural sector, within key pillars such as technology, sustainability, diversity and inclusion (D&I), he will strengthen BFC support and government support. to strengthen.

“BFC has extraordinary convening power and understands what the UK fashion industry needs. We are committed to contributing positively to the reputation and economic value of this incredible industry. increase.

Pemsel succeeds Stephanie Phair, founder of The Outnet and group president of Farfetch. Phair spent nearly four and a half years as she oversaw BFC, helping shape a more inclusive and sustainable industry despite facing unprecedented challenges such as shutdowns due to the pandemic and Brexit. Funded by industry patrons, commercial sponsors, events and dues, her BFC also receives some funding from the UK government, but the funding has been cut in half during this period. Prior to Phair, Net-a-Porter founder Natalie Massenet held the role.

Pemsel’s media career was a surprising turning point for the BFC, which Pemsel said was looking for candidates from both within the fashion industry and from the business side. He sees this as an opportunity to raise awareness for fashion. “Instead of viewing music, film or advertising as all parts of a separate business, ultimately they are all part of the creative industry, which he is one of the largest and most culturally significant industries.” he says. “The fashion business makes a huge contribution, both economically and culturally.