Australian Fashion Council (AFC) CEO Leila Naja Hibri has decided to depart her role after four years, exiting in early 2024 once a new chief is found.
Naja Hibri will continue to play an advisory role as the AFC’s nominated director on the board of Seamless, Australia’s new national clothing product stewardship scheme.
AFC chair Marianne Perkovic thanked Naja Hibri for her contribution.
“Leila is no ordinary CEO. She places people at the heart of all she does and is passionate about driving positive industry change, responsible growth and social and environmental justice.
“Over the past four years Leila has brought the Australian fashion industry together, increasing recognition of our $27.2bn contribution to the Australian economy, including $7.2bn in export revenue.
“With technology and innovation, diversity and inclusion always at the forefront, she has also led the development of an ambitious vision based on foundational strategic pillars."
Naja Hibri launched a number of landmark initiatives during her time, including Seamless, the Australian Fashion Trademark and industry modelling reports.
Naja Hibri said with a well-defined vision and strategic direction in place, it was time for a new phase at AFC.
"I am immensely proud of the AFC for guiding the beginning of our industry’s just transformation.
"Together we have navigated the challenges of the COVID era and commanded government attention by delivering groundbreaking reports that unveiled our industry’s true economic value and potential.
"We also established the progressive Australian Fashion Trademark, the pivotal Seamless clothing product stewardship scheme, and initiated the AFC Fashtech Lab as well as an Indigenous Fashion Fund.
“My most sincere thanks go to the incomparable AFC team, our chair and board and of course our loyal members, invaluable Patrons and industry partners. I also thank all the organisations and agencies, industry leaders and individuals who continue to support the AFC and our work.
“I am confident that the AFC, through collaboration, creativity and courage, will continue guiding this great industry as it transitions to a world-class thriving circular economy by 2030."
The AFC is currently accepting expressions of interest for the new CEO role.