Mint Magazine London congratulates Pavita Cooper on her appointment as Chair of the British Fashion Council
Mint Magazine London congratulates Pavita Cooper on her appointment as Chair of the British Fashion Council
Mint Magazine London is delighted to congratulate Pavita Cooper on her appointment as the new Chair of the British Fashion Council, effective 1 October 2026.
Pavita succeeds David Pemsel, who will step down on 30 September following a decade on the BFC Board, including four years as Chair. His contribution to the organisation and to the wider British fashion industry marks an important chapter in the BFC's evolution.
The appointment comes at an exciting moment for British fashion, with the BFC continuing to deliver its ambitious BFC 2030: Access, Creativity, Growth strategy. Pavita brings a wealth of experience spanning business, policy and government relations, alongside a clear commitment to strengthening the conditions in which British designers, entrepreneurs and fashion businesses can thrive, scale and compete internationally.
Alongside Pavita's appointment, Caroline Issa will become Deputy Chair — a newly created role designed to further strengthen the BFC's connection with the exceptional designer community it represents. A longstanding BFC Board member, Caroline brings deep fashion industry expertise, an extensive global network and an active, authentic relationship with the designers and creative businesses at the heart of British fashion.
Commenting on her appointment, Pavita said she was honoured to take on the role and that her priority would be to champion fashion as an important driver of UK growth, while helping to create a stronger environment for British fashion businesses to start, scale and compete globally. She also paid tribute to David Pemsel for his exceptional service to the BFC and the industry.
BFC CEO Laura Weir welcomed Pavita's appointment, highlighting her experience and understanding of government and policy as an important addition to the Board. Together with Caroline Issa as Deputy Chair, the new leadership brings a powerful combination of industry knowledge, influence, policy expertise and close connection to the fashion community.
For Mint Magazine London, Pavita's appointment feels particularly significant at a time when the British fashion industry is navigating both considerable challenges and extraordinary opportunities. Her focus on growth, investment, policy and international competitiveness comes at a pivotal moment for the sector — and her leadership promises to bring fresh energy to the BFC's role in shaping the future of British fashion.
The BFC's nominations committee led a thorough search, conducted by The MBS Group, which generously donated its fee back to support the designer community. The BFC Executive Board ratified Pavita's appointment on 25 August 2026.
Congratulations, Pavita. We look forward to seeing the next chapter of British fashion unfold under your leadership.
