UK Fashion & Textile Association appoint new CEO

The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer, as John Miln is set to step down from the role. Miln will be succeeded by Adam Mansell, who will take over duties as of January 2016, but remain onboard as Consultant to UKFT.

Miln, who has acted as CEO since 2011, leadership is said to have been "instrumental" in the growth and success of the association and the numeroue businesses it helped develop and grow. Prior to joining the team at UKFT, Miln had an established career within the textiles and apparel industry, both within the UK as well as internationally.

"I have been privileged to lead the UK Fashion & Textile Association over the last five years as CEO," said Miln in a statement. "This planned leadership transition comes at a time of strength and growth for UKFT. I look forward to working with Adam, the Board and the UKFT team as a Consultant after retiring as CEO and I am hugely grateful to them for their commitment and support over the years."

Mansell, current Director of Special Projects at UKFT, has been credited with increasing the associations membership offer whilst overseeing the introduction of a new retail partner programme as well as introducing the UKFT Masterclasses and running an environmental programme. In addition to his role at UKFT, Mansell is also a Director of Wulff Consultancy, a bespoke consultancy for the fashion and textile industry and has recently been elected as President of Ginetex, the organisation which owns trademarked care labelling symbols.

"John Miln has done an exceptional job in positioning UKFT as the most inclusive British network for fashion and textiles and I am both delighted and honoured to be taking on the role of CEO," said Mansell. "I look forward to working with the UKFT team to continue the vital work the association undertakes on behalf of the industry."

UKFT Chairman Nigel Lugg, added: "John Miln has been a very strong leader for UKFT and one who has managed the organisation through challenging transitions. The Board is grateful for his innumerable contributions to UKFT and his distinguished tenure as CEO over the last five years. I look forward to working with Adam Mansell in continuing to bring the industry together and am delighted to welcome him into his new role in January."

Photo: John Miln, UKFT Facebook