British School of Fashion launches expert advisory board

The British School of Fashion has appointed an illustrious advisory board of global fashion experts to help guide new talent entering the industry.

Chaired by Dr Tessa Hartmann CBE, The British School of Fashion Advisory Board will play a vital role in informing Glasgow Caledonian University’s distinctive portfolio of fashion business and luxury programmes, which focus on the ‘Buy Less, Buy Better’ philosophy.

The board will also work to identify life-changing opportunities for students helping to develop a workforce for a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.

Dr Hartmann, Honorary President of the British School of Fashion, will be joined by 10 industry leaders, including Jane Shepherdson, Chair of My Wardrobe HQ; the renowned photographer and director Rankin; Stephen Clark, Global Senior Director Product & Merchandising, Jordan/Nike Inc; and Mark Hogarth, Creative Director, Harris Tweed Hebrides.

Anthony Burns, Chief Operating Officer of ACS Clothing; Brian Duffy, chief executive of the Watches of Switzerland Group; Jonathan Chippindale, Co-Founder of Holition; Maggie Smart, Partner, Folk and Operations / Commercial at Sounder Golf; Sandra Mertens-Lustig, Chief Brand and Product Officer, Pangaia; and Yvie Hutton, Director of Designer Relations and Membership at the British Fashion Council, will also bring their expertise to the board.

Dr Hartmann, speaking at the launch of the British School of Fashion Advisory Board in Glasgow, said: “Together we want to widen access and ensure we have a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline from all backgrounds.

“We want to empower our students with the skills, networks and confidence to help drive a positive shift in our relationship with clothes, creating a fashion industry for the Common Good.”

Tim Jackson, Director of the British School of Fashion, said: "Our fashion students are hungry to learn. They already have access to the best teachers but now they will also benefit from an Advisory Board of experts operating at the cutting edge of practice.

"The board members bring together expertise in Augmented Reality, digital and immersive retail, rental and resale, sustainable and ethical manufacturing and brand management, along with considerable brand owner management experience."