Resilience as a Leadership Essential in the Fashion Industry Amid Tariff Challenges

Taking the helm of the British Fashion Council, the new CEO emphasizes resilience as a fundamental leadership quality crucial for navigating the complexities of trade tariffs and economic instability.

Laura Weir, formerly serving as the creative director at Selfridges, stepped into the leadership role of the esteemed non-profit in April 2025, following the long tenure of industry expert Caroline Rush.

In a chat with CNBC during the spectacle of London Fashion Week, an event she oversees, Weir shared insights into managing difficulties.

"I take some time to unwind with a warm bath and a soothing cup of tea," Weir revealed. "Challenges are part of the landscape, and maintaining resilience is critical. I dig deep, regroup, and press forward."

Navigating the Tariff Impact

During Weir's initial month as CEO, significant tariff impositions by the U.S. President on April 2 affected over 180 countries, impacting vital manufacturing hubs.

Regions such as Italy, home to brands like Prada and Zara, Vietnam, the base for Nike's footwear, and Bangladesh, crucial for denim production, felt the strain. Concurrently, the EU, which holds a significant share of the luxury market, faced challenges as well.

David Pemsel, chair of the British Fashion Council, expressed concerns in April regarding the tariffs, highlighting the difficult choices between raising prices or reducing profit margins. Efforts are ongoing with the U.K. Department of Business and Trade to push for tariff exemptions for British fashion exports to the U.S.

Weir characterized the tariffs as a formidable hurdle but remained positive, stressing the significance of fostering strong ties with American partners.

"Our aim is to bridge understanding with American counterparts about the real challenges these measures pose," she noted.

"For designers already grappling with various obstacles, these tariffs heavily influence their commercial viability. At BFC, we're committed to conveying these impacts to our U.S. partners."

The Power of Listening in Leadership

Discussing her leadership approach, Weir values the art of listening as a vital component for modern CEOs.

"Leadership today involves engaging in open dialogue, recognizing both the trials we encounter and the potential advantages," Weir explained.

"I'm eager to build significant connections with stakeholders, including our patrons, designers, and policymakers, fostering an inclusive environment."

Renowned business figures, from various sectors, emphasize the importance of soliciting input from team members on the ground as a critical leadership skill.

These leaders understand the necessity of acknowledging diverse opinions, even when they differ from their own, and recognize the value of admitting when they are incorrect.

Effective leadership often revolves around convening the right individuals to engage in dialogue and consider different viewpoints, ultimately guiding decision-making.

This perspective is echoed by many, including those who emphasize the importance of truly listening, acknowledging the disconnect between upper management and frontline realities as one's career advances.