Following the council meeting held on 25 June 2026, The Textile Institute has confirmed the continuation of Professor Jess Power CText FTI as Chair of The Textile Institute Council in the UK for her fourth consecutive year, alongside the appointment of the Institute’s honorary officers for the forthcoming year. The Institute also has recognized the continued leadership of Charles Wood CText FTI as world president, supporting global engagement with members, industry partners and the wider textile community.
With a strong focus on implementing its strategy, strengthening membership engagement, expanding its international reach and supporting the future of the textile profession, The Textile Institute looks forward to an exciting year ahead.
Power has a distinguished career spanning textiles, technical textiles, fashion, education and research. Previously professor of learning and teaching and associate pro vice-chancellor for learning and teaching enhancement at the University of Salford, she has led initiatives focused on academic innovation, collaboration and enhancing the student experience.
A fellow of The Textile Institute, Power has been a member of the Institute since 1993 and has previously served as honorary secretary and as an elected council member. Her extensive experience and commitment to the textile sector have supported the institute’s strategic development, including the implementation of its current strategy launched in 2024. Through her continued contribution, Power is helping to strengthen the institute’s ambition to connect professionals, encourage innovation and develop future talent across the global textile community.
About her continued appointment as chair of The Textile Institute Council, Professor Power said, “To be appointed chair of The Textile Institute for a 4th term is an enormous privilege. The organization has a remarkable global legacy and heritage. I am very much looking forward to working with the honorary officers, standing committees, sections, special interest groups and council to serve our international fashion and textiles community in the advancement of innovation, sustainability, and professional standards across the globe.”
Power will be supported by the honorary officers: vice chair: Professor Rohana Kuruppu CText FTI; honorary secretary: Dr Jane Wood CText FTI; Honorary treasurer: Professor Pammi Sinha CText FTI; vice president: Jason Kent CText FTI; and immediate past world president: Professor Malgorzata Zimniewska CText FTI.
