Gemma will join the BFC's senior management team, alongside Clara Mercer who has been named head of marketing and Jenico Preston who is now head of sponsorship.

Caroline Rush, British Fashion Council CEO, said: "This new, dynamic senior management team will provide essential support to focus on strategy and innovation, identify opportunities that deliver profile and value for the sector and strengthen the organisation's ability to promote and support growth for UK-based designer businesses."

The British Fashion Council appointed its first full-time management team in 2009 to deliver its 25th anniversary celebrations and a legacy programme to enhance ongoing support and promotion for British designers.