Jaana Quaintance-James has been selected as the new CEO of the Australian Fashion Council, effective today, following the exit of Leila Naja Hibri.
Quaintance-James was most recently the chief sustainability and sourcing officer at Global Fashion Group - the parent company to The Iconic and two other marketplaces in Latin America and Southeast Asia. Prior to GFG, she was head of sustainability at The Iconic and an ethical sourcing manager at David Jones.
AFC chair Marianne Perkovic said Quaintance-James joins the organisation as the Australian fashion and textile industry navigates challenging trading conditions, technology shifts, and skills shortages.
“There was a high level of interest in this position,” Perkovic said. “We were ultimately impressed by Ms Quaintance-James’ strategic leadership and strong financial, and operational skills.
“Her industry knowledge and drive for business transformations that improve profitability and sustainability will ensure our industry continues to thrive.”
Quaintance-James said she will champion and support AFC members as they manage shifts ahead, including the commencement of Seamless - a clothing product stewardship scheme expected to launch in mid-2024.
“Behind the incredible Australian fashion brands are businesses and their employees supported by consumers,” she said.
“Together we create opportunities to accomplish more and continue to grow the economic contributions of the Australian Fashion and Textile Industry.”
Quaintance-James succeeds Leila Naja Hibri, who had been the AFC CEO for the past four years.