The founder of UK-based online retailer Net-a-Porter, Natalie Massenet, is to be appointed Chairman of the British Fashion Council (BFC), it is understood.
Replacing current Chairman Harold Tillman, owner of luxury brands Jaeger and Aquascutum, Massenet is set to take up the honorary post following the sale of a £50 million stake in Net-a-Porter earlier this year to Swiss group Richemont.
Massenet remains on the Net-a-Porter board as Executive Chairman while no detail has been given of Tillman‘s future plans, though the news comes just days before the start of London Fashion Week.
Tillman joined the BFC four years ago and was tasked with revitalising the event and it is expected that Massenet‘s past experience, which includes her work as Editor of fashion favourite Women‘s Wear Daily, will prepare her well for the role.
However, the BFC refused to confirm the news, commenting in a statement: “Despite rumours, the British Fashion Council has confirmed that any new chairman is subject to BFC executive board approval.
“The BFC executive board is not due to meet until this evening and any announcement cannot be expected until then.”
