David Beckham appointed ambassadorial president of the BFC

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced the appointment of David Beckham to the new position of ambassadorial president, a role in which he will support the organisation in raising the profile of British talent globally.

For an initial two-year tenure, Beckham will focus on the BFC's goal of building networks and partnerships in the United States and Asia, and raising the profile of emerging British fashion talent with the global investment and media communities alike.

Another key focus of the role will be supporting the BFC across its Education pillar – helping it to reach young talent from all backgrounds across the UK - through BFC-run Saturday Clubs, scholarships and apprenticeships and via increased engagement in arts education.

For the first 12 months of the role, Beckham, along with industry leaders, editors and designers, will visit fashion education programmes across the UK and will host events in China and the United States, unlocking his global network to convene support for the BFC’s work in these markets.

New BFC chairman Stephanie Phair, whose appointment was announced yesterday, said the organisation was "thrilled and excited" to welcome the former international footballer, entrepreneur and global style icon to the new role.

"As we look to boost support for the British fashion industry at a global level we identified the need for a global figurehead, with global reach, who is able to shine a light on our incredible British fashion talent and ensure we build and create energy for the British fashion economy as we transition through the Brexit period – and David is perfectly placed to help us do this," Phair said.

She added that the BFC has already been discussing ways in which Beckham could support the organisation. "We have spent the last few months working closely with David to identify how we can build on our networks in Asia and North America as we aim to support increased opportunities for businesses to grow in these regions. David has been inspired by our work with emerging talent and education and his business acumen, global reach and passion for promoting talent and education make him the perfect Ambassadorial President to propel our industry into different corners of the globe,” she said.

Beckham said the appointment was "an incredibly proud moment". "I have long been passionate about British style, fashion and craftsmanship and this role gives me the chance to get under the skin of an industry I love. I am excited to be working closely with the British Fashion Council to promote and inspire young talent, from across the UK, on a global scale. The fashion industry is one of our best performing global exports and I am looking forward to working with our future leaders and supporting the BFC in their global ambition," he said.