New director at UKFT

The UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) appointed Eric Musgrave, the former editorial director

of Drapers, as the director general designate from 4 January 2010. He will succeed John Wilson when he retires in the summer after 38 years with the industry’s leading trade associations. John was awarded the OBE in 1999 for services to the clothing and textile industry.

Making the announcement Peter Lucas, chairman of UKFT, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Eric has taken this position. He has been involved in the fashion industry since 1980 and has an exceptionally broad knowledge of all aspects of the sector. He will make a worthy successor to John, who has contributed so much to the industry and its associations during a long and distinguished career.”

In addition to Musgrave’s appointment, Lucas also announced that Adam Mansell, an executive at UKFT, has been promoted to deputy director, positions also held by Elizabeth Fox and Paul Alger

UKFT is the body that represents the fashion and textile sector. Its members include major suppliers to high street retailers, as well as leading brands. UKFT succeeds the British Clothing Industry Association, which earlier this year subsumed UK Fashion Exports (UKFE), which is now the export division of the new organisation.