Anya Hindmarch Joins UK Government’s Board of Trade: Fashion and Sustainability Leader

Anya Hindmarch, the esteemed UK luxury accessories designer, has received an invitation from Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Kemi Badenoch, to join the revamped Board of Trade—an exciting development at the intersection of fashion and government.

Anya Hindmarch, a prominent figure in the fashion industry, is among a select group of distinguished British business leaders chosen to be part of the newly reinvigorated Board of Trade. This historic board, which had lain dormant for decades until its revival in 2017, is set to regain prominence with the inclusion of influential figures.

According to sources disclosed by Sky News, the new board is expected to feature Hindmarch, Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman, and CEO of Universal Music Group, and Tim Bevan, co-founder of the renowned film production company Working Title. An official announcement regarding these appointments is anticipated later this month.

Kemi Badenoch, serving as the President of the Board of Trade, is reportedly eager to elevate the board’s profile and influence in government affairs. This strategic move signifies a concerted effort to engage top-tier business leaders in shaping economic policies and trade relations.

The Department for Business and Trade, while approached for comment, refrained from offering official statements on the matter. Notably, this isn’t the first instance of a prominent fashion industry figure taking on a government advisory role, as seen with Philip Green, who conducted an efficiency review at the invitation of former Prime Minister David Cameron.

Anya Hindmarch’s enduring presence in the fashion industry is nothing short of remarkable. In 2019, she resumed her role as CEO and Creative Director of her eponymous label after Mayhoola Investments transferred control of the brand to the Marandi family, repositioning it as a more digitally focused brand. However, Hindmarch also led the brand’s resurgence in physical retail in spring 2021, with the opening of a cluster of stores in Belgravia, London.

Furthermore, Anya Hindmarch has distinguished herself as a prominent advocate for sustainability, spearheading a 15-year campaign to eliminate plastic carrier bags from the retail landscape. Her multifaceted expertise in fashion and her unwavering commitment to environmental causes make her a highly valuable addition to the Board of Trade.

Anya Hindmarch’s appointment underscores the increasing role of fashion leaders in shaping government policies and highlights the industry’s dedication to sustainability and meaningful change.