Anya Hindmarch joins BFC

Bag designer Anya Hindmarch is following in the footsteps of Hilary Riva and joining the

British Fashion Council (BFC) as a non-executive director.

Hindmarch joins BFC chairman Harold Tillman, chief executive Caroline Rush, chief operating officer Simon Ward and treasurer Chris Inman on the board.Riva left the BFC earlier this year to pursue other interests.

Hindmarch set up her eponymous handbag label at the age of 19 and now has 54 stores worldwide.

Earlier this month, Hindmarch was appointed by Prime Minister David Cameron to be a global trade envoy for the UK, along with Jimmy Choo founder Tamara Mellon. Her role is to promote UK trade abroad.

BRC chairman Harold Tillman said: “Anya will make a great addition to our team. She brings with her huge experience from both the design and retail sector and will be invaluable as we move towards with our future plans.”

Hindmarch added: “I am looking forward to getting involved and being able to contribute to such an innovative and prestigious body at such an exciting time for British fashion.”