Sir John Sorrell to step down from Creative Industries Federation role

Sir John Sorrell has announced that he will step down as chairman of the Creative Industries Federation at the beginning of 2017.

Sorrell established the Federation in 2014. Previously, he co-founded design consultancy Newell and Sorrell in 1976 with his wife Lady Frances Sorrell, and set up charitable organisation the Sorrell Foundation in 1999.

He later established the London Design Festival in 2003, and the London Design Biennale, which is currently in its first year.

He also previously chaired the Design Council, and still chairs the University of the Arts London (UAL), which he has done since 2013. He is also a trustee of the Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum.

Sorrell takes on a new role at the Federation as founder president.

He says: “I’ve been working on the project to establish the Creative Industries Federation for the best part of a decade. It is in fantastic shape with great leadership, staff and board, and a good strategic plan.

“It is now time for someone else to take the organisation forward. But I will be proud to remain closely involved.”

Sir Nicholas Serota, director of the Tate, comments on Sorrell’s departure: “John Sorrell conceived the Federation and has led it with a deft touch and with imagination, winning the support of government and the creative community. We are all immensely grateful.”

The Federation is currently seeking a new chairman, which is says will be a “sought-after board post across the UK’s art and creative industries”.