AFC head seeks fresh challenge
MELBOURNE: The founder and general manager of the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) has stepped down from her position.
Zoe Edquist, who established the council two and a half years ago as the principal industry organisation for Australian fashion businesses, officially resigned effective February 25. "It's been a real privilege for me to work with so many terrifically talented, dedicated and creative people during my time with the AFC," she said.
Since founding the AFC as a subdivision of the Council of Textile and Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA), Edquist built the council's membership to 120 and introduced a number of benefits for members. These included free advice on government grants as well as legal advice on a range of issues including commercial contracts and intellectual property.
A lawyer by training, Edquist also established a set of AFC standard agreements to assist members in streamlining their businesses and legal affairs.
Aside from formal member services Edquist also ensured the AFC provided a discussion and networking forum. As part of the TFIA it was well placed to take advantage of that body's lobbying capabilities, allowing members a direct say in both state and federal government policies impacting the fashion industry.
During her tenure Edquist was instrumental in securing ongoing funding for the council through the support of high recall sponsors including Myer and Charles Parsons, as well as support - in the from of free legal advice - from law firm Tresscox.
Edquist said her main hope for the future of the AFC was to encourage small businesses to sign up for membership and work collectively for the future of their industry.
"Understandably many fashion businesses are time poor, but in terms of giving a voice to this industry, which is 80 per cent comprised of small businesses, it's crucial for companies to come together and collaborate."
Her resignation signals a period of significant change for both the council and the TFIA. It follows the appointment of new TFIA executive director Jo Kellock on January 21, after a transfer that saw former TFIA head Ashley Van Krieken tender his resignation effective January 25. It is understood Jo Kellock will oversee the day to day running of the AFC until a new AFC general manager is appointed.
Edquist will continue working with the council as a consultant while pursuing her own consultancy business, which services fashion and interior design clients.
By Belinda Smart