Lord Rose, the former CEO of Marks & Spencer and a supporter of the Fashion Retail Academy since its earliest days, becomes Patron as the FRA prepares to open the doors of its new campus in September 2024.
Education For Industry Group is pleased to announce that Lord Rose has been appointed the first Patron of the Fashion Retail Academy. A highly respected and influential figure in the UK retail landscape, Lord Rose is the former CEO of Marks & Spencer and the current Chair of Asda and brings a wealth of experience to the role.
"I am honoured to become the first patron of the Fashion Retail Academy. The Academy plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry by equipping young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. I look forward to continuing to support the Fashion Retail Academy’s mission and helping to inspire the next generation of fashion retail professionals."
Lord Rose, Member of the House of Lords
As the September opening of the Fashion Retail Academy's new campus at Electra House, Moorgate, fast approaches, this milestone appointment recalls the inception of the Academy in 2005. Lord Rose is a longstanding supporter of the FRA, having been at the helm of M&S when it became a founding partner.
Since opening with just 50 students, the Fashion Retail Academy has grown to become home to over 2,000 students with demand for its industry-led, practical learning only increasing. The opening of the spacious and thoughtfully designed new campus in a prestigious heritage building will enable the Academy to broaden its offer to an even larger audience. In its new home at Electra House, the FRA will continue to answer the growing industry demand for job-ready talent by launching courses in new formats and subject areas to address the fashion retail industry’s most critical skills gaps.
With the appointment of Lord Rose as Patron of the Fashion Retail Academy, Education For Industry Group hopes to raise the profile of its unique industry-led education model and garner further support for the charity's flagship FE and HE college.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lord Rose as our first patron. His unparalleled experience and passion for nurturing emerging talent aligns perfectly with our goals. This appointment is a significant step forward for the Academy as we continue to evolve and expand our impact on the fashion retail sector.”
Kim Longman, Chair of Education For Industry Group
The Fashion Retail Academy will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025, and in the coming months hopes to appoint further Patrons to work alongside Lord Rose in supporting its mission to nurture fashion's next generation.
Since its founding 19 years ago, the FRA has become established as a powerhouse in fashion education, having trained over 13,000 students for entry-level roles in the industry. 89% of students find employment or continue in education within six months of completing their course, and its partnerships with over 250 brands, from well-known high street names to high-end luxury brands, ensures learners enjoy the most up-to-date industry-relevant training.
Comments