Suren Fernando

Chief Executive Officer, MAS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd

Suren Fernando

Chief Executive Officer, MAS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd

Suren Fernando is the Chief Executive Officer of MAS Holdings, giving leadership to a group of companies with over 100,000 employees across 14 geographies around the world. Counting over 25 years with MAS, Suren was previously the Chief Transformation Officer of MAS Holdings, prior to which he was the CEO of MAS Intimates, the largest division of MAS Holdings, where he also served as the Chief Operating Officer.

Suren received his executive education at Wharton Business School, Harvard Business School, University of Pennsylvania, INSEAD Business School, Ashridge Business School, and the Henley School of Management, University of Waikato in New Zealand. Suren holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka and is a Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, UK. In August 2023, Suren was appointed to the Board of John Keells Holdings, one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified conglomerates, as an Independent Non-Executive Director.The MAS Plan for Change, the enterprise’s sustainability strategy, was introduced in 2020, and was rolled out across the group during Suren’s first years as CEO.

Suren Fernando is the Chief Executive Officer of MAS Holdings, giving leadership to a group of companies with over 100,000 employees across 14 geographies around the world. Counting over 25 years with MAS, Suren was previously the Chief Transformation Officer of MAS Holdings, prior to which he was the CEO of MAS Intimates, the largest division of MAS Holdings, where he also served as the Chief Operating Officer.

Suren received his executive education at Wharton Business School, Harvard Business School, University of Pennsylvania, INSEAD Business School, Ashridge Business School, and the Henley School of Management, University of Waikato in New Zealand. Suren holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka and is a Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, UK. In August 2023, Suren was appointed to the Board of John Keells Holdings, one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified conglomerates, as an Independent Non-Executive Director.The MAS Plan for Change, the enterprise’s sustainability strategy, was introduced in 2020, and was rolled out across the group during Suren’s first years as CEO.

Sunny Tan

HKSAR Legislative Council Member (Textiles and Garment); Chairman, Hong Kong Fashion Council, Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Hong Kong Fashion Council

Sunny Tan

HKSAR Legislative Council Member (Textiles and Garment); Chairman, Hong Kong Fashion Council, Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Hong Kong Fashion Council

As a seasoned industrialist, Hon Sunny Tan is currently a Member of the Legislative Council representing the Textiles and Garment functional constituency and Senior Advisor to Luen Thai Holdings Limited, a leading fashion and lifestyle apparel and accessories manufacturer, for which he has served for more than two decades. He is also the Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, Executive Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, Executive Vice President of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Textiles and the Founder and Chairman of Hong Kong Fashion Council. In 2013, he received the “Young Industrialist Awards of Hong Kong”.

Hon Sunny Tan has a strong record of public and community service. He serves as a Member of the Committee on Innovation, Technology and Industry Development, a Member of Trade and Industry Advisory Board of the HKSAR Government. He is also the Chairman of the Design Discipline Advisory Board of Hong Kong Design Institute, and Council Member of the Vocational Training Council, Board Director of the Hong Kong Design Centre and Member of the Advisory Committee of the School of Fashion and Textiles of Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He is also a Standing Committee Member of the Hebei Province Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

Hon Sunny Tan obtained a Master of Science degree from Stanford University and Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

As a seasoned industrialist, Hon Sunny Tan is currently a Member of the Legislative Council representing the Textiles and Garment functional constituency and Senior Advisor to Luen Thai Holdings Limited, a leading fashion and lifestyle apparel and accessories manufacturer, for which he has served for more than two decades. He is also the Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, Executive Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, Executive Vice President of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Textiles and the Founder and Chairman of Hong Kong Fashion Council. In 2013, he received the “Young Industrialist Awards of Hong Kong”.

Hon Sunny Tan has a strong record of public and community service. He serves as a Member of the Committee on Innovation, Technology and Industry Development, a Member of Trade and Industry Advisory Board of the HKSAR Government. He is also the Chairman of the Design Discipline Advisory Board of Hong Kong Design Institute, and Council Member of the Vocational Training Council, Board Director of the Hong Kong Design Centre and Member of the Advisory Committee of the School of Fashion and Textiles of Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He is also a Standing Committee Member of the Hebei Province Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

Hon Sunny Tan obtained a Master of Science degree from Stanford University and Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Harsh Saini

Interim CEO, Cascale

Harsh Saini

Interim CEO, Cascale

Harsh currently serves as Cascale’s interim chief executive officer, as well as a director on a number of boards and advises senior leaders on sustainable business, human rights, environmental practices, trade regulations, as well as innovation in supply chains. Harsh has held leadership positions in global corporations, including Nike and the Fung Group, in many parts of the world, in a career spanning corporate communications, marketing, government affairs, and pioneering corporate responsibility and sustainability.

Harsh currently serves as Cascale’s interim chief executive officer, as well as a director on a number of boards and advises senior leaders on sustainable business, human rights, environmental practices, trade regulations, as well as innovation in supply chains. Harsh has held leadership positions in global corporations, including Nike and the Fung Group, in many parts of the world, in a career spanning corporate communications, marketing, government affairs, and pioneering corporate responsibility and sustainability.

Joseph Phi

Chief Executive Officer, Li & Fung

Joseph Phi

Chief Executive Officer, Li & Fung

Joseph Phi is the Group CEO of Li & Fung, a global leader in creating digitally enabled, operationally agile, and globally connected supply chain solutions for brands and retailers worldwide.

With a career spanning decades in global trade and supply chain, Joseph has held leadership roles that extend well beyond the Group. He served as a director of the GS1 Management Board, Chairman of GS1 Hong Kong, and director of Macy’s China Limited. Today, he continues to shape the industry as a Board Adviser to SM Investments Corporation and a Board Member of Golden ABC, one of the Philippines’ leading retailers.

Equally committed to advancing the broader community, Joseph has served as Honorary Advisor to the Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference and as an Advisory Member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Logistics Services Committee. In academia, he is an Adjunct Professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s School of Business and Management, where he inspires the next generation of leaders with insights on transformation, leadership, and the future of global commerce.

Joseph Phi is the Group CEO of Li & Fung, a global leader in creating digitally enabled, operationally agile, and globally connected supply chain solutions for brands and retailers worldwide.

With a career spanning decades in global trade and supply chain, Joseph has held leadership roles that extend well beyond the Group. He served as a director of the GS1 Management Board, Chairman of GS1 Hong Kong, and director of Macy’s China Limited. Today, he continues to shape the industry as a Board Adviser to SM Investments Corporation and a Board Member of Golden ABC, one of the Philippines’ leading retailers.

Equally committed to advancing the broader community, Joseph has served as Honorary Advisor to the Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference and as an Advisory Member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Logistics Services Committee. In academia, he is an Adjunct Professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s School of Business and Management, where he inspires the next generation of leaders with insights on transformation, leadership, and the future of global commerce.

Lukas Pünder

CEO & Co-Founder, Retraced

Lukas Pünder

CEO & Co-Founder, Retraced

Lukas Pünder is the co-founder and CEO of Retraced. Prior to Retraced, he co-founded Cano Clothing Company in 2016. He studied at The Stockholm School of Economics, the National University of Singapore, and the Otto Beisheim School of Management. Lukas’ deep expertise in sustainability and technology has positioned him as a key driver of scalable solutions in the fashion industry. His vision for enhancing transparency and ethical business practices underscores his belief that businesses can be powerful agents of change in addressing global challenges.

Lukas Pünder is the co-founder and CEO of Retraced. Prior to Retraced, he co-founded Cano Clothing Company in 2016. He studied at The Stockholm School of Economics, the National University of Singapore, and the Otto Beisheim School of Management. Lukas’ deep expertise in sustainability and technology has positioned him as a key driver of scalable solutions in the fashion industry. His vision for enhancing transparency and ethical business practices underscores his belief that businesses can be powerful agents of change in addressing global challenges.

Anne Laure Descours

Sustainability Advisor, PUMA

Anne Laure Descours

Sustainability Advisor, PUMA

Anne-Laure Descours was PUMA’s Chief Sourcing Officer and member of the Board until Dec 2024 and has recently transitioned as Group Advisor for Sustainability.She joined PUMA in 2012 and from 2019 to 2024 in her role as CSO, she supervised Product Development, Sourcing and was also Puma’s Chief Sustainability Officer. This dual role helped to establish a global and resilient supply chain despite a challenging environment, while accelerating the brand commitment to sustainability and efforts through the purposeful use of digital throughout Product Development and Sourcing, leading the industry towards responsible practices.In March this year, she was appointed as Director of the Board of Gildan Activewear, one of the world’s largest vertically integrated Apparel manufacturers.A French national, Anne Laure has 35 years of experience in the Sourcing industry and has been based in Hong Kong since 1994. Prior to PUMA, she worked for international sourcing organizations, such as Li & Fung and Otto International.

Anne-Laure Descours was PUMA’s Chief Sourcing Officer and member of the Board until Dec 2024 and has recently transitioned as Group Advisor for Sustainability.She joined PUMA in 2012 and from 2019 to 2024 in her role as CSO, she supervised Product Development, Sourcing and was also Puma’s Chief Sustainability Officer. This dual role helped to establish a global and resilient supply chain despite a challenging environment, while accelerating the brand commitment to sustainability and efforts through the purposeful use of digital throughout Product Development and Sourcing, leading the industry towards responsible practices.In March this year, she was appointed as Director of the Board of Gildan Activewear, one of the world’s largest vertically integrated Apparel manufacturers.A French national, Anne Laure has 35 years of experience in the Sourcing industry and has been based in Hong Kong since 1994. Prior to PUMA, she worked for international sourcing organizations, such as Li & Fung and Otto International.

Dinesh Virwani

Executive Vice Chairman, Epic Group

Dinesh Virwani

Executive Vice Chairman, Epic Group

Dinesh Virwani is Executive Vice Chairman and co‑founder of EPIC Group. An MBA graduate from the University of Mumbai, he joined the Group in 1992 and has been instrumental in shaping Epic’s manufacturing footprint, corporate planning, business development, and strategic partnerships. Today, Dinesh oversees group manufacturing and leads Epic’s sustainability agenda – advancing resource efficiency, responsible sourcing, and innovation—across a multinational organization of 30,000+ employees. Under his leadership, the Group has strengthened its reputation for operational excellence and long‑term customer partnerships. He resides in Hong Kong with his family.

Dinesh Virwani is Executive Vice Chairman and co‑founder of EPIC Group. An MBA graduate from the University of Mumbai, he joined the Group in 1992 and has been instrumental in shaping Epic’s manufacturing footprint, corporate planning, business development, and strategic partnerships. Today, Dinesh oversees group manufacturing and leads Epic’s sustainability agenda – advancing resource efficiency, responsible sourcing, and innovation—across a multinational organization of 30,000+ employees. Under his leadership, the Group has strengthened its reputation for operational excellence and long‑term customer partnerships. He resides in Hong Kong with his family.

David J. Begbie

Co-Founder & Director, Crossroads Foundation

David J. Begbie

Co-Founder & Director, Crossroads Foundation

Abhishek Bansal

Vice President, Sustainability, Arvind Limited

Abhishek Bansal

Vice President, Sustainability, Arvind Limited

Agnes Fung

Senior Consultant, Weave Services Limited

Agnes Fung

Senior Consultant, Weave Services Limited

Agnes is a management consultant working in business & digital transformation in retail and supply chain. She is passionate about effecting positive impact on the everyday consumer, having delivered measurable results with large organisations in retail, supply chain, food, FMCG and healthcare. Agnes holds a Manufacturing Engineering degree from the University of Cambridge and is currently helping build the sustainability offering at Weave.

Agnes is a management consultant working in business & digital transformation in retail and supply chain. She is passionate about effecting positive impact on the everyday consumer, having delivered measurable results with large organisations in retail, supply chain, food, FMCG and healthcare. Agnes holds a Manufacturing Engineering degree from the University of Cambridge and is currently helping build the sustainability offering at Weave.

Alexandra Rieger

Senior Director, Manufacturer Membership, Cascale

Alexandra Rieger

Senior Director, Manufacturer Membership, Cascale

Ana Rodes

Head of Sustainability, Recover

Ana Rodes

Head of Sustainability, Recover

Ana Rodes is Head of Sustainability at Recover, with expertise in ESG, decarbonisation, and circular economy. She holds a PhD in Textile Engineering and has specialised in Sustainability Leadership at IESE and IE Businesses School. Passionate about sustainable fashion, she works to drive positive change across materials, regulation, and supply chains.

Virtual Speaker

Ana Rodes is Head of Sustainability at Recover, with expertise in ESG, decarbonisation, and circular economy. She holds a PhD in Textile Engineering and has specialised in Sustainability Leadership at IESE and IE Businesses School. Passionate about sustainable fashion, she works to drive positive change across materials, regulation, and supply chains.

Virtual Speaker

Angela Lee

Director of Regional Supplier Engagement, Worldly

Angela Lee

Director of Regional Supplier Engagement, Worldly

Annabel Meurs

Executive Director, Fair Wear

Annabel Meurs

Executive Director, Fair Wear

Annabel Meurs is a passionate and longstanding advocate for sustainability and human rights in global garment and footwear supply chains. With a career dedicated to improving the lives of the people who make our clothes, Annabel works tirelessly to drive meaningful change across the industry.

A natural convener, Annabel is committed to uniting diverse stakeholders—from brands and factories to workers, trade unions, NGOs, and industry influencers—to accelerate the shift towards safe, dignified, and fairly paid employment in global value chains. She believes deeply in the power of collaboration, recognising that only by bringing together key players can we build the critical mass necessary to create lasting, sustainable impact.

Annabel is known for developing practical, actionable solutions that enable brands to adapt their business practices, build more resilient supply chains, and ultimately drive greater respect for workers’ rights. She has guided numerous global garment brands in strengthening their due diligence processes and aligning their operations with the highest standards of social responsibility.

As the Executive Director at Fair Wear, Annabel oversees the strategic development the organisation. She played a pivotal role in the creation of the Brand Performance Check, a system that assesses brands’ progress in fulfilling their due diligence obligations. In addition to her work at Fair Wear, Annabel represents the MSI Caucus on the SLCP Supervisory Board, where she advocates for industry-wide improvements in labor conditions.

Before joining Fair Wear, Annabel worked extensively in development aid, advocacy, and conflict prevention at organizations like Hivos and the European Centre for Conflict Prevention, gaining a wealth of experience in navigating complex global challenges and driving social impact.

Annabel Meurs is a passionate and longstanding advocate for sustainability and human rights in global garment and footwear supply chains. With a career dedicated to improving the lives of the people who make our clothes, Annabel works tirelessly to drive meaningful change across the industry.

A natural convener, Annabel is committed to uniting diverse stakeholders—from brands and factories to workers, trade unions, NGOs, and industry influencers—to accelerate the shift towards safe, dignified, and fairly paid employment in global value chains. She believes deeply in the power of collaboration, recognising that only by bringing together key players can we build the critical mass necessary to create lasting, sustainable impact.

Annabel is known for developing practical, actionable solutions that enable brands to adapt their business practices, build more resilient supply chains, and ultimately drive greater respect for workers’ rights. She has guided numerous global garment brands in strengthening their due diligence processes and aligning their operations with the highest standards of social responsibility.

As the Executive Director at Fair Wear, Annabel oversees the strategic development the organisation. She played a pivotal role in the creation of the Brand Performance Check, a system that assesses brands’ progress in fulfilling their due diligence obligations. In addition to her work at Fair Wear, Annabel represents the MSI Caucus on the SLCP Supervisory Board, where she advocates for industry-wide improvements in labor conditions.

Before joining Fair Wear, Annabel worked extensively in development aid, advocacy, and conflict prevention at organizations like Hivos and the European Centre for Conflict Prevention, gaining a wealth of experience in navigating complex global challenges and driving social impact.

Antonio León de la Barra

VP of Strategy, Growth, and Innovation, Inspectorio

Antonio León de la Barra

VP of Strategy, Growth, and Innovation, Inspectorio

As the Executive representative for APAC, Antonio is responsible for driving initiatives that connect operational realities across the region with strategic outcomes for global brands. Over his 7+ year tenure at Inspectorio, Antonio has led the implementations of Inspectorio’s solutions for some of the largest brands, retailers, and manufacturers in the world. With additional experience leading growth in EMEA and go-to-market for Inspectorio’s strategic solutions, he brings deep expertise in scaling solutions across complex supply chains. Antonio is passionate about transforming sourcing and manufacturing through data, innovation, and collaboration.​

As the Executive representative for APAC, Antonio is responsible for driving initiatives that connect operational realities across the region with strategic outcomes for global brands. Over his 7+ year tenure at Inspectorio, Antonio has led the implementations of Inspectorio’s solutions for some of the largest brands, retailers, and manufacturers in the world. With additional experience leading growth in EMEA and go-to-market for Inspectorio’s strategic solutions, he brings deep expertise in scaling solutions across complex supply chains. Antonio is passionate about transforming sourcing and manufacturing through data, innovation, and collaboration.​

Arrow Shi

Global Scheme Manager, TÜV Rheinland Co., Ltd.

Arrow Shi

Global Scheme Manager, TÜV Rheinland Co., Ltd.

Ms. Arrow Shi is now working for TÜV Rheinland in the position of Global Scheme Manager. She gets her bachelor degree of applied chemistry, as well as light chemical engineering. Ms. Arrow Shi owns more than 10 years experiences in Environmental and Sustainable Management, chemical management and the relevant programs management. Acting as program leader for the retailers and overseas clients. In recent years, Ms. Shi is focused on environmental, chemical, sustainability consulting and audit projects, appointed to be the Global Scheme Manager and qualified as: BEPI Environmental Lead Monitor, Higg FEM Chemical Specialist and Trainer, Certified Industrial Hygienist, ZDHC Trainer, etc..

Ms. Arrow Shi is now working for TÜV Rheinland in the position of Global Scheme Manager. She gets her bachelor degree of applied chemistry, as well as light chemical engineering. Ms. Arrow Shi owns more than 10 years experiences in Environmental and Sustainable Management, chemical management and the relevant programs management. Acting as program leader for the retailers and overseas clients. In recent years, Ms. Shi is focused on environmental, chemical, sustainability consulting and audit projects, appointed to be the Global Scheme Manager and qualified as: BEPI Environmental Lead Monitor, Higg FEM Chemical Specialist and Trainer, Certified Industrial Hygienist, ZDHC Trainer, etc..

Bart DeMeirsman

Advisor, Different Dialogue

Bart DeMeirsman

Advisor, Different Dialogue

Bart Demeirsman has over 30years of experience in Global Apparel & Footwear manufacturing, supply chain management, business development, and consultancy for US and European brands and retailers such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap Inc, Boardriders Group and C&A. He specialises in organisational optimisation, supply chain performance management , and reducing environmental impact through supply chain collaboration.

Bart Demeirsman has over 30years of experience in Global Apparel & Footwear manufacturing, supply chain management, business development, and consultancy for US and European brands and retailers such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap Inc, Boardriders Group and C&A. He specialises in organisational optimisation, supply chain performance management , and reducing environmental impact through supply chain collaboration.

Betty Li

Senior Manager, Membership Engagement APAC, Cascale

Betty Li

Senior Manager, Membership Engagement APAC, Cascale

Betty is the Senior Manager of Membership Engagement, APAC at the Cascale. She leads the APAC region, ensuring that members have the guidance and support needed to reach joint goals and to utilize the Higg Index tools to drive their sustainability strategies forward. She is based in Hong Kong.

Betty is the Senior Manager of Membership Engagement, APAC at the Cascale. She leads the APAC region, ensuring that members have the guidance and support needed to reach joint goals and to utilize the Higg Index tools to drive their sustainability strategies forward. She is based in Hong Kong.

Brian La Plante

Senior Manager Sustainability, YKK

Brian La Plante

Senior Manager Sustainability, YKK

With a career focused on design and sustainability Brian La Plante has been at the forefront of sustainable product design and material innovation. As director of outerwear at Marmot, he was one of the early adopters of recycled and sustainable materials, and the use of PFAS-free finishes.

Now as Senior Manager of Sustainability for YKK, he is focused on garment circularity, the development of next generation sustainable materials, and low carbon production processes. Working with many of the world’s largest brands, he is involved in the challenges of textile-to-textile recycling and industry decarbonization. As a member of the United Nations Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, he works on engaging stakeholders in collective action to address the industry’s GHG emissions and bring transformational change to the sector.

With a career focused on design and sustainability Brian La Plante has been at the forefront of sustainable product design and material innovation. As director of outerwear at Marmot, he was one of the early adopters of recycled and sustainable materials, and the use of PFAS-free finishes.

Now as Senior Manager of Sustainability for YKK, he is focused on garment circularity, the development of next generation sustainable materials, and low carbon production processes. Working with many of the world’s largest brands, he is involved in the challenges of textile-to-textile recycling and industry decarbonization. As a member of the United Nations Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, he works on engaging stakeholders in collective action to address the industry’s GHG emissions and bring transformational change to the sector.

Buddhi Paranamana

Director Sustainability & Innovation, PDS Limited

Buddhi Paranamana

Director Sustainability & Innovation, PDS Limited

Buddhi is a highly accomplished professional with a strong background in sustainability, innovation, and corporate strategy. With extensive experience in driving ESG initiatives and fostering sustainable practices, Buddhi has played key leadership roles in renowned companies.

Prior to his role as Director Sustainability & Innovation for PDS Group, he was the Chief Innovation Officer for the companies Sri Lankan subsidiary – Norlanka.

He has also operated as the Head of Innovations & Director – Group Strategy, Technology & Innovations at Hela Clothing (Hela Apparel Holdings). Buddhi has held managerial positions at MAS Holdings earlier in his career. He has over 12+ years of experience within the industry and possess extensive knowledge in Product & Process Innovation, Corporate Strategy and Lean Manufacturing.

Buddhi holds a BSc (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Robotics from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, USA. Furthermore, he is an associate member of IESL (Institute of Engineers Sri Lanka) and a certified practitioner of Lean Manufacturing.

Buddhi is a highly accomplished professional with a strong background in sustainability, innovation, and corporate strategy. With extensive experience in driving ESG initiatives and fostering sustainable practices, Buddhi has played key leadership roles in renowned companies.

Prior to his role as Director Sustainability & Innovation for PDS Group, he was the Chief Innovation Officer for the companies Sri Lankan subsidiary – Norlanka.

He has also operated as the Head of Innovations & Director – Group Strategy, Technology & Innovations at Hela Clothing (Hela Apparel Holdings). Buddhi has held managerial positions at MAS Holdings earlier in his career. He has over 12+ years of experience within the industry and possess extensive knowledge in Product & Process Innovation, Corporate Strategy and Lean Manufacturing.

Buddhi holds a BSc (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Robotics from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, USA. Furthermore, he is an associate member of IESL (Institute of Engineers Sri Lanka) and a certified practitioner of Lean Manufacturing.

Cathy Ching

Senior Vice President (Sustainability), Invest Hong Kong

Cathy Ching

Senior Vice President (Sustainability), Invest Hong Kong

Cathy Ching is the Senior Vice President of Sustainability in the Lifestyle and Creative Industries sector at Invest Hong Kong. In this pivotal role, she focuses on integrating sustainable practices across the dynamic sectors of Consumer Products, Tourism and Hospitality, and Creative Industries, Sports & Entertainment. Cathy is dedicated to attracting and facilitating the establishment of companies from Mainland China and overseas in Hong Kong, emphasizing the importance of sustainability as a cornerstone of modern business.

Her commitment to sustainability extends to initiatives in the circular and green economy, where she works to promote innovative solutions that drive sustainability and circularity. Cathy believes that these approaches are essential for fostering long-term economic resilience and environmental stewardship. She actively collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop strategies that not only drive economic growth but also prioritize ecological balance.

Before her tenure at Invest Hong Kong, Cathy gained extensive experience in various public organizations and government departments in Hong Kong. This background has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sustainability landscape. Cathy is committed to driving meaningful change and fostering a more sustainable future.

Cathy Ching is the Senior Vice President of Sustainability in the Lifestyle and Creative Industries sector at Invest Hong Kong. In this pivotal role, she focuses on integrating sustainable practices across the dynamic sectors of Consumer Products, Tourism and Hospitality, and Creative Industries, Sports & Entertainment. Cathy is dedicated to attracting and facilitating the establishment of companies from Mainland China and overseas in Hong Kong, emphasizing the importance of sustainability as a cornerstone of modern business.

Her commitment to sustainability extends to initiatives in the circular and green economy, where she works to promote innovative solutions that drive sustainability and circularity. Cathy believes that these approaches are essential for fostering long-term economic resilience and environmental stewardship. She actively collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop strategies that not only drive economic growth but also prioritize ecological balance.

Before her tenure at Invest Hong Kong, Cathy gained extensive experience in various public organizations and government departments in Hong Kong. This background has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sustainability landscape. Cathy is committed to driving meaningful change and fostering a more sustainable future.

Chris Marshall

Director, Industry Decarbonization, Cascale

Chris Marshall

Director, Industry Decarbonization, Cascale

Chris Marshall is the Head of Industry Decarbonization at Cascale, the apparel, footwear, and textile industry’s leading alliance for sustainable production. He is responsible for leading the Transparency Program, which provides a consistent way for brands, retailers, and manufacturers to share sustainability information on apparel and footwear products, across impact categories such as water use, greenhouse gas emissions, and use of fossil fuels. He is based in Amsterdam in The Netherlands.

Before joining Cascale team, Chris was the Senior Director of Merchandising, at PVH where he was tasked with leading a team developing sports performance apparel. Chris comes with 16+ years of experience in the footwear and apparel industry in companies such as Nike, Converse, Vans (VF), Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein (PVH). His functional experience ranges from planning, sourcing, vendor compliance, and product merchandising.

Chris prides himself on being a lifelong learner and he has recently finished his master’s degree in digital management. In his free time you can find him chasing the sun, wild camping throughout his multi-day hikes in the mountains.

Chris Marshall is the Head of Industry Decarbonization at Cascale, the apparel, footwear, and textile industry’s leading alliance for sustainable production. He is responsible for leading the Transparency Program, which provides a consistent way for brands, retailers, and manufacturers to share sustainability information on apparel and footwear products, across impact categories such as water use, greenhouse gas emissions, and use of fossil fuels. He is based in Amsterdam in The Netherlands.

Before joining Cascale team, Chris was the Senior Director of Merchandising, at PVH where he was tasked with leading a team developing sports performance apparel. Chris comes with 16+ years of experience in the footwear and apparel industry in companies such as Nike, Converse, Vans (VF), Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein (PVH). His functional experience ranges from planning, sourcing, vendor compliance, and product merchandising.

Chris prides himself on being a lifelong learner and he has recently finished his master’s degree in digital management. In his free time you can find him chasing the sun, wild camping throughout his multi-day hikes in the mountains.

Chu Ching

Decarbonization Program Coordinator, Cascale

Chu Ching

Decarbonization Program Coordinator, Cascale

Chu Ching is a coordinator of the Decarbonization Program at Cascale. She ensures that Cascale’s collective action strategy and programs are planned, implemented, and monitored, while also collaborating with the program team, Higg Index team, and global membership team to conduct research, respond quickly to member inquiries, and update communication platforms. She is based in Hong Kong.

Prior to joining Cascale, Chu worked as sustainability development assistant at Allied Sustainability And Environmental Consultants Group Limited. She was specialized in ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) consulting, green building, and decarbonization strategies planning. She graduated with a master’s degree in environmental management from the University of Hong Kong.

Chu enjoys public engagement that enhances people’ environmental awareness. Besides joining regular beach cleaning, Chu designed and launched an online educational game-based project to educate the public about local agriculture in Hong Kong recently. The program drew 16,000 site visitors in two months and the project was covered by the local newspapers.

Chu Ching is a coordinator of the Decarbonization Program at Cascale. She ensures that Cascale’s collective action strategy and programs are planned, implemented, and monitored, while also collaborating with the program team, Higg Index team, and global membership team to conduct research, respond quickly to member inquiries, and update communication platforms. She is based in Hong Kong.

Prior to joining Cascale, Chu worked as sustainability development assistant at Allied Sustainability And Environmental Consultants Group Limited. She was specialized in ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) consulting, green building, and decarbonization strategies planning. She graduated with a master’s degree in environmental management from the University of Hong Kong.

Chu enjoys public engagement that enhances people’ environmental awareness. Besides joining regular beach cleaning, Chu designed and launched an online educational game-based project to educate the public about local agriculture in Hong Kong recently. The program drew 16,000 site visitors in two months and the project was covered by the local newspapers.

Daniel Etra

VP, Product, Worldly

Daniel Etra

VP, Product, Worldly

Daniel Etra is Vice President of Product at Worldly, where he is responsible for the Higg Index tools, Product Impact Calculator, the FFC platform and facility experiences. Previously he served as VP of Product Development at Renew Financial, and managed programs at Ecotrust. He holds a BA in Sociology from Reed College and an MBA in Sustainable Business from Pinchot University.

Daniel Etra is Vice President of Product at Worldly, where he is responsible for the Higg Index tools, Product Impact Calculator, the FFC platform and facility experiences. Previously he served as VP of Product Development at Renew Financial, and managed programs at Ecotrust. He holds a BA in Sociology from Reed College and an MBA in Sustainable Business from Pinchot University.

David Forsgate

Chief Representative Officer, ERALDA

David Forsgate

Chief Representative Officer, ERALDA

Chief Representative Officer at ERALDA Indonesia sourcing high-quality and long lasting clothing. Working with a fantastic team of professionals in Jakarta, Indonesia. We strive to go beyond expectations for our customers and are a leading performer and sourcing partner in the industry. As a B Corp, we believe business works best when it’s a force for good.

My career began in international development and social enterprise. Through the On Purpose leadership programme in London, I learned from inspiring social ventures and world-class trainers; an experience that shaped how I lead today.

Now in the apparel industry, I’ve carried those values and concepts forward, helping our company become a certified B Corporation and partnering with customers to build supply chains that are resilient and deliver real lasting impact.

Chief Representative Officer at ERALDA Indonesia sourcing high-quality and long lasting clothing. Working with a fantastic team of professionals in Jakarta, Indonesia. We strive to go beyond expectations for our customers and are a leading performer and sourcing partner in the industry. As a B Corp, we believe business works best when it’s a force for good.

My career began in international development and social enterprise. Through the On Purpose leadership programme in London, I learned from inspiring social ventures and world-class trainers; an experience that shaped how I lead today.

Now in the apparel industry, I’ve carried those values and concepts forward, helping our company become a certified B Corporation and partnering with customers to build supply chains that are resilient and deliver real lasting impact.

Dr. Delman Lee

Vice Chair, TAL Apparel Ltd

Dr. Delman Lee

Vice Chair, TAL Apparel Ltd

Dr. Delman Lee is the Vice Chair of TAL Apparel Limited. He leads TAL Apparel on its long-term strategy and continuous innovations in various aspects of the business. His major focuses are sustainability, digital transformation, lean operations, disruptive technologies and business model innovations. He is responsible for the innovative services of TAL such as Vendor Managed Inventory and leads the sustainability journey of TAL for the past 20+ years. Dr. Lee holds a doctorate from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the Imperial College, London. Dr. Lee possesses extensive experience in information technology and management in global operations. He also has a strong background in research.

Dr. Delman Lee is the Vice Chair of TAL Apparel Limited. He leads TAL Apparel on its long-term strategy and continuous innovations in various aspects of the business. His major focuses are sustainability, digital transformation, lean operations, disruptive technologies and business model innovations. He is responsible for the innovative services of TAL such as Vendor Managed Inventory and leads the sustainability journey of TAL for the past 20+ years. Dr. Lee holds a doctorate from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the Imperial College, London. Dr. Lee possesses extensive experience in information technology and management in global operations. He also has a strong background in research.

Demith Gooneratne

Director, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

Demith Gooneratne

Director, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

Demith Gooneratne is the Director of Higg Facility Tools at Cascale. His key responsibilities include project management of the Higg FEM, in collaboration with a wide variety of stakeholders, and facilitation and coordination of Cascale members’ involvement. This role also continues the development of adoption resources that support the global scaling of the Higg Facility Module and QA testing in cooperation with technical teams and coordination of communications and case studies. He is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Prior to joining the Cascale team, Demith was the Senior Manager – Environmental Sustainability at Hirdaramani International Exports (Pvt) Ltd; Sri Lanka, where he was largely responsible for the development of their Environmental Sustainability Department, and managing the environmental sustainability initiatives primarily in Sri Lanka for more than a decade and overlooking strategy level implementation in Bangladesh and Vietnam. He Holds a BSc Degree in Physical Science and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science from the University of Colombo (Sri Lanka). 

In his free time Demith enjoys swimming, watching Sci-Fi Movies and reading articles on new technologies and research findings related to Environment, Renewable Energy and Space Science.

Demith Gooneratne is the Director of Higg Facility Tools at Cascale. His key responsibilities include project management of the Higg FEM, in collaboration with a wide variety of stakeholders, and facilitation and coordination of Cascale members’ involvement. This role also continues the development of adoption resources that support the global scaling of the Higg Facility Module and QA testing in cooperation with technical teams and coordination of communications and case studies. He is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Prior to joining the Cascale team, Demith was the Senior Manager – Environmental Sustainability at Hirdaramani International Exports (Pvt) Ltd; Sri Lanka, where he was largely responsible for the development of their Environmental Sustainability Department, and managing the environmental sustainability initiatives primarily in Sri Lanka for more than a decade and overlooking strategy level implementation in Bangladesh and Vietnam. He Holds a BSc Degree in Physical Science and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science from the University of Colombo (Sri Lanka). 

In his free time Demith enjoys swimming, watching Sci-Fi Movies and reading articles on new technologies and research findings related to Environment, Renewable Energy and Space Science.

Dhanujie Jayapala

Head of Environmental Sustainability, MAS Holdings Pvt Ltd

Dhanujie Jayapala

Head of Environmental Sustainability, MAS Holdings Pvt Ltd

Dhanujie Jayapala is the Head of Environmental Sustainability within the Sustainable Business team at MAS. With over 13 years of experience in this field, he focuses primarily on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and decarbonisation.

Dhanujie is a graduate of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya, and holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development from the University of Sussex. He is also a Chartered Environmentalist accredited by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).

Currently, Dhanujie serves as a member of the Higg Product Tools Strategic Council of Cascale.

In his role at MAS, Dhanujie is focused on achieving the company’s environmental targets, including decarbonisation, which are aligned with its sustainability strategy, the MAS Plan for Change.

Dhanujie Jayapala is the Head of Environmental Sustainability within the Sustainable Business team at MAS. With over 13 years of experience in this field, he focuses primarily on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and decarbonisation.

Dhanujie is a graduate of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya, and holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development from the University of Sussex. He is also a Chartered Environmentalist accredited by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).

Currently, Dhanujie serves as a member of the Higg Product Tools Strategic Council of Cascale.

In his role at MAS, Dhanujie is focused on achieving the company’s environmental targets, including decarbonisation, which are aligned with its sustainability strategy, the MAS Plan for Change.

Dhawall Mane

Director, Training and Verification, Cascale

Dhawall Mane

Director, Training and Verification, Cascale

Dhawall is Cascale Director of Training and Verification and is based in Bangalore, India. He is responsible for building, maintaining, and improving verification and training programs for the Higg Index suite of tools and ensure that the Higg Index is a trusted and credible measure for sustainability performance and benchmarking.

Prior to joining Cascale, Dhawall worked with C&A’s sustainable chemicals management team as a senior specialist. His role involved working with manufacturers of varying complexities and building their capacity to implement environment management systems. He has worked with vertically integrated textile manufacturer Pratibha Syntex as a sustainability manager and was responsible for executing sustainability projects like GHG accounting and reporting, life cycle analysis, internal and external sustainability communications.

Dhawall has been recognized in the 2017 GreenBiz 30 Under 30 cohort of global sustainability professionals. Through Sustainability Drinks Bangalore, he convenes the city’s sustainability community for networking and collaboration opportunities.

Dhawall is Cascale Director of Training and Verification and is based in Bangalore, India. He is responsible for building, maintaining, and improving verification and training programs for the Higg Index suite of tools and ensure that the Higg Index is a trusted and credible measure for sustainability performance and benchmarking.

Prior to joining Cascale, Dhawall worked with C&A’s sustainable chemicals management team as a senior specialist. His role involved working with manufacturers of varying complexities and building their capacity to implement environment management systems. He has worked with vertically integrated textile manufacturer Pratibha Syntex as a sustainability manager and was responsible for executing sustainability projects like GHG accounting and reporting, life cycle analysis, internal and external sustainability communications.

Dhawall has been recognized in the 2017 GreenBiz 30 Under 30 cohort of global sustainability professionals. Through Sustainability Drinks Bangalore, he convenes the city’s sustainability community for networking and collaboration opportunities.

Ed Lam

CEO, LFX;, & Executive Board Director, Li & Fung

Ed Lam

CEO, LFX;, & Executive Board Director, Li & Fung

Ed Lam is CEO of LFX, transforming global value chains for brands, retailers, suppliers, and technology partners through strategic investment and operational leadership. At LFX, he builds adaptive, innovative, and sustainable supply chain ecosystems for a rapidly changing world.

He continues his leadership at Li & Fung as Board Member and Executive Committee member, actively shaping the company’s strategy, major transactions, capital structure, and key partnerships, and previously served as CFO, leading the Group through critical transformations and industry shifts.

Ed extends his expertise as Board Director of DBS Bank Hong Kong, advancing digital innovation and growth in the financial sector. Devoted to social impact, he serves on committees supporting children’s causes at UNICEF HK, Children’s Cancer Foundation, and Playright Children’s Play Association, nurturing future generations.

Ed previously held senior roles at Citi, Morgan Stanley, and PwC. He holds an MBA (High Honors) from Chicago Booth, a BBA (Highest Honors) from Texas at Austin, graduated from Harvard AMP, and is a US CPA. His leadership underscores a focus on innovation, partnership, and resilience for industries and communities.

Ed Lam is CEO of LFX, transforming global value chains for brands, retailers, suppliers, and technology partners through strategic investment and operational leadership. At LFX, he builds adaptive, innovative, and sustainable supply chain ecosystems for a rapidly changing world.

He continues his leadership at Li & Fung as Board Member and Executive Committee member, actively shaping the company’s strategy, major transactions, capital structure, and key partnerships, and previously served as CFO, leading the Group through critical transformations and industry shifts.

Ed extends his expertise as Board Director of DBS Bank Hong Kong, advancing digital innovation and growth in the financial sector. Devoted to social impact, he serves on committees supporting children’s causes at UNICEF HK, Children’s Cancer Foundation, and Playright Children’s Play Association, nurturing future generations.

Ed previously held senior roles at Citi, Morgan Stanley, and PwC. He holds an MBA (High Honors) from Chicago Booth, a BBA (Highest Honors) from Texas at Austin, graduated from Harvard AMP, and is a US CPA. His leadership underscores a focus on innovation, partnership, and resilience for industries and communities.

Eric Jen

Founder & CEO, Ren Energy

Eric Jen

Founder & CEO, Ren Energy

Eric is a leader of global renewable energy and clean-tech initiatives at Fortune 500 companies. He started Ren Energy after his time as Director of Renewable Energy at Nike resulted in the 2018 SCTI #1 ranking in corporate renewables (tied with Apple). Before Nike, Eric developed wind projects worldwide for Goldwind and worked on supply chain clean tech projects for Procter & Gamble focused on materials circularity.

Eric is a leader of global renewable energy and clean-tech initiatives at Fortune 500 companies. He started Ren Energy after his time as Director of Renewable Energy at Nike resulted in the 2018 SCTI #1 ranking in corporate renewables (tied with Apple). Before Nike, Eric developed wind projects worldwide for Goldwind and worked on supply chain clean tech projects for Procter & Gamble focused on materials circularity.

Evre Kaynak

Global Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) Leader, W. L. Gore & Associates

Evre Kaynak

Global Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) Leader, W. L. Gore & Associates

Evre Kaynak leads the Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) Program of W. L. Gore & Associates – Gore Fabrics, a Tier 2 supplier in technical fabrics. As a subject matter expert on HRDD for over 20 years, she has worked with buyers, N-Tier suppliers, human rights NGOs, industry organizations, and workers’ organizations in the textile, food, construction and oil and gas industries. She walked the floors of hundreds of manufacturing facilities in more than 30 countries. She has been working with a cross-functional team at Gore to ensure fair working conditions throughout Gore’s value chain since June 2015. In addition to her current role, she is a Consultant for Impactt Limited and teaches classes on Responsible Business at the University of Delaware as an Adjunct Instructor.

Evre Kaynak leads the Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) Program of W. L. Gore & Associates – Gore Fabrics, a Tier 2 supplier in technical fabrics. As a subject matter expert on HRDD for over 20 years, she has worked with buyers, N-Tier suppliers, human rights NGOs, industry organizations, and workers’ organizations in the textile, food, construction and oil and gas industries. She walked the floors of hundreds of manufacturing facilities in more than 30 countries. She has been working with a cross-functional team at Gore to ensure fair working conditions throughout Gore’s value chain since June 2015. In addition to her current role, she is a Consultant for Impactt Limited and teaches classes on Responsible Business at the University of Delaware as an Adjunct Instructor.

Fairooz Shahana

Chief Strategy Officer, GSCS International Ltd.

Fairooz Shahana

Chief Strategy Officer, GSCS International Ltd.

Fairooz Shahana, currently holding the position of Chief Strategy Officer, Governance Strategy, Business Assurance, and Organizational Quality Management System at GSCS International Ltd., has diverse work experience spanning over 7 years. Fairooz began her career in the field of auditing and assessment of Social, Environmental, Governance and Supply-chain.Prior to this position, Fairooz held the position of Global Program Manager of Product Certification and Environmental Sustainability Program, Head of Internal Audit, and Auditor for Social & Environmental Programs within the same company.Fairooz has academic background in Legal Studies and Environmental Management.

Fairooz Shahana, currently holding the position of Chief Strategy Officer, Governance Strategy, Business Assurance, and Organizational Quality Management System at GSCS International Ltd., has diverse work experience spanning over 7 years. Fairooz began her career in the field of auditing and assessment of Social, Environmental, Governance and Supply-chain.Prior to this position, Fairooz held the position of Global Program Manager of Product Certification and Environmental Sustainability Program, Head of Internal Audit, and Auditor for Social & Environmental Programs within the same company.Fairooz has academic background in Legal Studies and Environmental Management.

Felicia Hoeer

Project Manager Green Button, GIZ Gesellschaft für internationale Zusammenarbeit

Felicia Hoeer

Project Manager Green Button, GIZ Gesellschaft für internationale Zusammenarbeit

Felicia Hoeer is the Project Manager for Green Button and an advisor to BMZ at GIZ, a position she has held since 2019. She plays a critical role in driving forward the Green Button initiative, a certification scheme launched in 2019 by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Green Button is one of BMZ’s key instruments in promoting sustainability within the textile sector. Felicia’s expertise includes decarbonization, responsible purchasing practices, and fostering shared responsibility and partnerships in the industry.

Felicia holds a Master’s degree in Philosophy and Ethics and is deeply passionate about sustainability. She is based in Bonn, Germany.

Felicia Hoeer is the Project Manager for Green Button and an advisor to BMZ at GIZ, a position she has held since 2019. She plays a critical role in driving forward the Green Button initiative, a certification scheme launched in 2019 by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Green Button is one of BMZ’s key instruments in promoting sustainability within the textile sector. Felicia’s expertise includes decarbonization, responsible purchasing practices, and fostering shared responsibility and partnerships in the industry.

Felicia holds a Master’s degree in Philosophy and Ethics and is deeply passionate about sustainability. She is based in Bonn, Germany.

Frank Michel

Chief Executive Officer, ZDHC Foundation

Frank Michel

Chief Executive Officer, ZDHC Foundation

Frank Michel is CEO of the ZDHC Foundation, a global multi-stakeholder initiative working to eliminate chemicals of concern from the textile, apparel, and footwear industries. With over two decades of leadership in sustainability, Frank has been instrumental in steering the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme, focusing on scalable, systemic change across global supply chains. Frank is a passionate advocate for collaboration across brands, suppliers, and policymakers to drive real transformation. At the Cascale Event in Hong Kong, he will share insights on how systemic change can be achieved through shared frameworks, sustainable innovation, and data-driven strategies, aligning environmental progress with business resilience.

Frank Michel is CEO of the ZDHC Foundation, a global multi-stakeholder initiative working to eliminate chemicals of concern from the textile, apparel, and footwear industries. With over two decades of leadership in sustainability, Frank has been instrumental in steering the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme, focusing on scalable, systemic change across global supply chains. Frank is a passionate advocate for collaboration across brands, suppliers, and policymakers to drive real transformation. At the Cascale Event in Hong Kong, he will share insights on how systemic change can be achieved through shared frameworks, sustainable innovation, and data-driven strategies, aligning environmental progress with business resilience.

Gabriel Amouyal

Audit Services Director, QIMA

Gabriel Amouyal

Audit Services Director, QIMA

Gabriel Amouyal is the Audit Service Director at QIMA, where he has been instrumental in shaping the company’s global audit operations. Holding a degree in Industrial Engineering, Gabriel began his auditing career in China in 2007 and quickly advanced to leadership roles in Social Compliance and Auditing. Having lived in Asia for 17 years and fluent in Mandarin, he brings deep regional expertise and cultural insight to his work.

Gabriel joined QIMA with a mission to help establish it as a key industry player. Leveraging his extensive field experience, strong ethical standards, and long-term strategic vision, he developed robust operating procedures that supported QIMA’s rapid global expansion. His innovative mindset and embrace of technology positioned QIMA at the forefront of advanced auditing tools and data analytics. Moreover, Gabriel’s excellent communication skills and people-focused leadership foster enduring relationships with QIMA’s teams, clients, and partner programs.

Gabriel advocates for fair assessments, direct and constructive communication, and practical solutions to complex challenges. Through his work, Gabriel aims to drive pragmatic yet ambitious progress in the industry, benefiting all members and stakeholders by strengthening trust and integrity across supply chains.

Gabriel Amouyal is the Audit Service Director at QIMA, where he has been instrumental in shaping the company’s global audit operations. Holding a degree in Industrial Engineering, Gabriel began his auditing career in China in 2007 and quickly advanced to leadership roles in Social Compliance and Auditing. Having lived in Asia for 17 years and fluent in Mandarin, he brings deep regional expertise and cultural insight to his work.

Gabriel joined QIMA with a mission to help establish it as a key industry player. Leveraging his extensive field experience, strong ethical standards, and long-term strategic vision, he developed robust operating procedures that supported QIMA’s rapid global expansion. His innovative mindset and embrace of technology positioned QIMA at the forefront of advanced auditing tools and data analytics. Moreover, Gabriel’s excellent communication skills and people-focused leadership foster enduring relationships with QIMA’s teams, clients, and partner programs.

Gabriel advocates for fair assessments, direct and constructive communication, and practical solutions to complex challenges. Through his work, Gabriel aims to drive pragmatic yet ambitious progress in the industry, benefiting all members and stakeholders by strengthening trust and integrity across supply chains.

Gabriel Li

Manager - Vendor Sustainability, Environment, Amer Sports

Gabriel Li

Manager - Vendor Sustainability, Environment, Amer Sports

I am a passionate environmental professional with over 14 years of experience dedicated to advancing sustainable practices. I am committed to protecting the planet and driving meaningful environmental change through innovative strategies.

In my current role at Amer Sports, I am driving the environmental strategies and programs for Global Sourcing, fostering collaboration and innovation across the supply chain among Amer Sports brands to drive measurable progress toward our sustainability commitments and long-term vision.

I strongly believe that sustainability is a collective effort that cannot be achieved alone. I actively promote teamwork and partnership, understanding that the full impact is realized only when all stakeholders work together toward shared goals.

I am a passionate environmental professional with over 14 years of experience dedicated to advancing sustainable practices. I am committed to protecting the planet and driving meaningful environmental change through innovative strategies.

In my current role at Amer Sports, I am driving the environmental strategies and programs for Global Sourcing, fostering collaboration and innovation across the supply chain among Amer Sports brands to drive measurable progress toward our sustainability commitments and long-term vision.

I strongly believe that sustainability is a collective effort that cannot be achieved alone. I actively promote teamwork and partnership, understanding that the full impact is realized only when all stakeholders work together toward shared goals.

Glen Si

CEO, Benchmarks Company Ltd.

Glen Si

CEO, Benchmarks Company Ltd.

MBA, 30 years work experience in supply chain management

MBA, 30 years work experience in supply chain management

Howard Kwong

Senior Manager, Public Affairs APAC, Cascale

Howard Kwong

Senior Manager, Public Affairs APAC, Cascale

As Cascale’s Senior Manager, Public Affairs APAC, Howard manages and implements policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement and public affairs strategy for Greater China and the APAC region. Together with the team, he fosters collective action with members, strategic partners and external stakeholders aligned with our PA strategic objectives.

Howard has advised multinationals and governments at APCO, a global public affairs consultancy in 2016-2023 in Greater China and APAC including VF Corporation, Estee Lauder, Pernod Ricard, Select Florida. Howard served as Executive Officer for the Hong Kong SAR Government in 2009-2013 and provided strategic counsel to Bloomberg, UN Development Program China Office and WHO.

Howard graduated with a master’s degree in International Public Management at Sciences Po Paris and a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communications at Chinese University of Hong Kong as well as a CFA Certificate in ESG Investing.

As Cascale’s Senior Manager, Public Affairs APAC, Howard manages and implements policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement and public affairs strategy for Greater China and the APAC region. Together with the team, he fosters collective action with members, strategic partners and external stakeholders aligned with our PA strategic objectives.

Howard has advised multinationals and governments at APCO, a global public affairs consultancy in 2016-2023 in Greater China and APAC including VF Corporation, Estee Lauder, Pernod Ricard, Select Florida. Howard served as Executive Officer for the Hong Kong SAR Government in 2009-2013 and provided strategic counsel to Bloomberg, UN Development Program China Office and WHO.

Howard graduated with a master’s degree in International Public Management at Sciences Po Paris and a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communications at Chinese University of Hong Kong as well as a CFA Certificate in ESG Investing.

Ilishio Lovejoy

Programme Manager Labour Rights & Independent Researcher, Laudes Foundation / Independent

Ilishio Lovejoy

Programme Manager Labour Rights & Independent Researcher, Laudes Foundation / Independent

Ilishio Lovejoy has built a career deeply committed to advancing labor-centered industry transitions and fostering fair, inclusive industry practices. With a background spanning NGOs, academia, brands, and suppliers, she has worked across the fashion and textiles ecosystem to bridge the gap between business responsibility and the well-being of both workers and the planet.

Throughout her work, she has supported policy advancement, industry environmental improvements, and the agency and inclusion of marginalized supply chain actors and workers. From grant-making in her current role to managing business impacts in the private sector and advocating for policies and practices with NGOs, she has worked to drive meaningful progress towards socially and environmentally sustainable industries.

She recently completed her Master’s in Social Innovation at the Cambridge Judge Business School and is dedicated to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice in pursuit of fair and just transitions to net zero.

Ilishio Lovejoy has built a career deeply committed to advancing labor-centered industry transitions and fostering fair, inclusive industry practices. With a background spanning NGOs, academia, brands, and suppliers, she has worked across the fashion and textiles ecosystem to bridge the gap between business responsibility and the well-being of both workers and the planet.

Throughout her work, she has supported policy advancement, industry environmental improvements, and the agency and inclusion of marginalized supply chain actors and workers. From grant-making in her current role to managing business impacts in the private sector and advocating for policies and practices with NGOs, she has worked to drive meaningful progress towards socially and environmentally sustainable industries.

She recently completed her Master’s in Social Innovation at the Cambridge Judge Business School and is dedicated to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice in pursuit of fair and just transitions to net zero.

Irem Yanpar Cosdan

Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Open Supply Hub

Irem Yanpar Cosdan

Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Open Supply Hub

İrem Yanpar Coşdan is a textile engineer with over 15 years of experience in sourcing, product development, buying, and stakeholder engagement. As Stakeholder Engagement Manager at Open Supply Hub, she leads global engagement with facilities and trade associations to make supply chain data more transparent, accessible, and actionable. She designs strategies to make open supply chain data understandable and usable for the communities most affected, amplifying facility voices and connecting them with global stakeholders to drive visibility, informed decision-making, and accountability across industries.She is a contributing author to “Slowness in Fashion” book and received The Social Impact Award at the Vogue Green Carpet Awards (2022) on behalf of Fashion Revolution Turkiye. She holds an MBA from Galatasaray University and is pursuing an MSc in Innovative Technical Textiles at Istanbul Technical University.

Virtual Speaker

İrem Yanpar Coşdan is a textile engineer with over 15 years of experience in sourcing, product development, buying, and stakeholder engagement. As Stakeholder Engagement Manager at Open Supply Hub, she leads global engagement with facilities and trade associations to make supply chain data more transparent, accessible, and actionable. She designs strategies to make open supply chain data understandable and usable for the communities most affected, amplifying facility voices and connecting them with global stakeholders to drive visibility, informed decision-making, and accountability across industries.She is a contributing author to “Slowness in Fashion” book and received The Social Impact Award at the Vogue Green Carpet Awards (2022) on behalf of Fashion Revolution Turkiye. She holds an MBA from Galatasaray University and is pursuing an MSc in Innovative Technical Textiles at Istanbul Technical University.

Virtual Speaker

Isabelle Kumar

Award Winning Journalist, Presenter, Moderator, former News Anchor

Isabelle Kumar

Award Winning Journalist, Presenter, Moderator, former News Anchor

Isabelle Kumar moderates and MCs at high level events, including the first ever EU Presidential debate, deep dives at the Davos World Economic Forum, business analysis at the Consumer Goods Forum, human rights with the UN, tech transformation at the influential HIMSS digital health conference or the latest innovations with LEAP. In addition to this she has presented award ceremonies for the UN and the European Commission as well as chairing private events for heads of state and government inlcuding with former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Previously to moderating full time – she was a prime time news anchor for Euronews. She also traveled the world interviewing heads of state and government, business leaders as well a few celebrities for the show she hosted, The Global Conversation.

Isabelle Kumar moderates and MCs at high level events, including the first ever EU Presidential debate, deep dives at the Davos World Economic Forum, business analysis at the Consumer Goods Forum, human rights with the UN, tech transformation at the influential HIMSS digital health conference or the latest innovations with LEAP. In addition to this she has presented award ceremonies for the UN and the European Commission as well as chairing private events for heads of state and government inlcuding with former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Previously to moderating full time – she was a prime time news anchor for Euronews. She also traveled the world interviewing heads of state and government, business leaders as well a few celebrities for the show she hosted, The Global Conversation.

Jason Mandels

Brand Learning and Accountability Lead, Fair Wear

Jason Mandels

Brand Learning and Accountability Lead, Fair Wear

Jason Mandels is the Brand Learning and Accountability Lead at Fair Wear, where he drives brand learning, procurement transformation, and accountability across global supply chains. He leads the HRDD Academy, Marketing & Acquisition, and Member Learning teams, facilitating cross-team collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organisation. Drawing on his background as a garment and fabric buyer for fashion brands, Jason brings practical industry insight into his work on sustainable procurement and corporate accountability. His experience gives him a grounded perspective on the challenges of balancing commercial priorities with human rights responsibilities. Jason has contributed to the development of the Purchasing Practices Human Rights Due Diligence Framework (PP-DD) and played a key role in the rollout and application of the Common Framework for Responsible Purchasing Practices (CFRPP), advancing fairer and more transparent supply chains through collaboration and shared learning.

Jason Mandels is the Brand Learning and Accountability Lead at Fair Wear, where he drives brand learning, procurement transformation, and accountability across global supply chains. He leads the HRDD Academy, Marketing & Acquisition, and Member Learning teams, facilitating cross-team collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organisation. Drawing on his background as a garment and fabric buyer for fashion brands, Jason brings practical industry insight into his work on sustainable procurement and corporate accountability. His experience gives him a grounded perspective on the challenges of balancing commercial priorities with human rights responsibilities. Jason has contributed to the development of the Purchasing Practices Human Rights Due Diligence Framework (PP-DD) and played a key role in the rollout and application of the Common Framework for Responsible Purchasing Practices (CFRPP), advancing fairer and more transparent supply chains through collaboration and shared learning.

Jayanth Kashyap B.

Investment Lead, Good Fashion Fund

Jayanth Kashyap B.

Investment Lead, Good Fashion Fund

Jayanth is a senior investment professional with deep experience advancing sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions across Asia and Africa through impact investing and advisory.

He is the Investment Lead for the Good Fashion Fund—the world’s only dedicated impact fund for the SME textile and apparel sector—where he defines strategy, manages impact outcomes, and executes investments into manufacturers adopting climate-smart, resource-efficient, and socially responsible technologies with long-term USD finance and technical assistance.

Jayanth drives a portfolio of six transformational investments across nine factories in India and Bangladesh supporting manufacturers to reduce energy, water, and chemical use while enhancing business resilience and worker & gender outcomes.

His prior experiences range from venture capital, impact debt and impact advisory working across multi-sector portfolios and mandates. He holds an MBA from Oxford Saïd Business School and is a Gender-Lens Investing Fellow with 2X Global.

Jayanth brings an established track record and perspective on how catalytic capital can unlock scalable solutions for climate action and a ‘just’ transition in global textile manufacturing.

Jayanth is a senior investment professional with deep experience advancing sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions across Asia and Africa through impact investing and advisory.

He is the Investment Lead for the Good Fashion Fund—the world’s only dedicated impact fund for the SME textile and apparel sector—where he defines strategy, manages impact outcomes, and executes investments into manufacturers adopting climate-smart, resource-efficient, and socially responsible technologies with long-term USD finance and technical assistance.

Jayanth drives a portfolio of six transformational investments across nine factories in India and Bangladesh supporting manufacturers to reduce energy, water, and chemical use while enhancing business resilience and worker & gender outcomes.

His prior experiences range from venture capital, impact debt and impact advisory working across multi-sector portfolios and mandates. He holds an MBA from Oxford Saïd Business School and is a Gender-Lens Investing Fellow with 2X Global.

Jayanth brings an established track record and perspective on how catalytic capital can unlock scalable solutions for climate action and a ‘just’ transition in global textile manufacturing.

Jennifer Yang

VP, Tai Loc Producing Shoes Co., Ltd

Jennifer Yang

VP, Tai Loc Producing Shoes Co., Ltd

With nearly two decades of hands-on experience in the family footwear business, Jennifer has cultivated an understanding of the industry from the ground up. Her journey began on the production line in Taiwan, where she developed a keen eye for craftsmanship, then advanced through the sampling, purchasing and sales departments, gaining insights into product development and client relations. Today, Jennifer holds a leadership role in management, where she oversees strategic and cross-functional operations in Tailoc, a ladies footwear manufacturer located in HCMC, Vietnam.

Her mission is to ensure quality, sustainability, and to instill good value in the company she loves. Jennifer’s commitment to improvement and ethical business practices aligns seamlessly with the mission of Cascale and the MCAP initiative introduced by their supportive partners Nordstrom and Caleres.

With nearly two decades of hands-on experience in the family footwear business, Jennifer has cultivated an understanding of the industry from the ground up. Her journey began on the production line in Taiwan, where she developed a keen eye for craftsmanship, then advanced through the sampling, purchasing and sales departments, gaining insights into product development and client relations. Today, Jennifer holds a leadership role in management, where she oversees strategic and cross-functional operations in Tailoc, a ladies footwear manufacturer located in HCMC, Vietnam.

Her mission is to ensure quality, sustainability, and to instill good value in the company she loves. Jennifer’s commitment to improvement and ethical business practices aligns seamlessly with the mission of Cascale and the MCAP initiative introduced by their supportive partners Nordstrom and Caleres.

Jeremy Lardeau

Senior Vice President, Higg Index, Cascale

Jeremy Lardeau

Senior Vice President, Higg Index, Cascale

Jeremy Lardeau is the Senior VP of the Higg Index at Cascale. As part of the leadership team, he oversees the strategic direction and development of the Higg Index suite of tools. Jeremy is based in Barcelona, Spain.

Before joining Cascale team, Jeremy was Senior Director of Sustainability Analytics, at Nike, Inc. where he led sustainability reporting, performance management, data products, and reporting. Prior to Nike, Jeremy was a manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers’ sustainability practice, successively working out of the Paris, Mexico City, and San Francisco offices.

Jeremy holds a Masters in Industrial Engineering from the Ecole Centrale Paris. In his free time he is known to love travelling, running and alpine climbing, but actually enjoys most spending time with his three young boys.

Jeremy Lardeau is the Senior VP of the Higg Index at Cascale. As part of the leadership team, he oversees the strategic direction and development of the Higg Index suite of tools. Jeremy is based in Barcelona, Spain.

Before joining Cascale team, Jeremy was Senior Director of Sustainability Analytics, at Nike, Inc. where he led sustainability reporting, performance management, data products, and reporting. Prior to Nike, Jeremy was a manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers’ sustainability practice, successively working out of the Paris, Mexico City, and San Francisco offices.

Jeremy holds a Masters in Industrial Engineering from the Ecole Centrale Paris. In his free time he is known to love travelling, running and alpine climbing, but actually enjoys most spending time with his three young boys.

Jimmy Summers

VP - EHS, Chief Sustainability Officer, Elevate Textiles, Inc.

Jimmy Summers

VP - EHS, Chief Sustainability Officer, Elevate Textiles, Inc.

Jimmy Summers is the Vice President of Environment, Health, and Safety, and Chief Sustainability Officer at Elevate Textiles, Inc., manufacturer of distinguished fabric brands and thread solutions for automotive, apparel (including denim), interior furnishing, and specialty products. He is responsible for the EHS and Sustainability programs for the company’s 40 manufacturing facilities and support facilities throughout the world. Jimmy has worked in the textile and apparel industry for over 25 years, both in manufacturing and corporate positions. Summers has significant experience in managing textile wastewater treatment systems around the world, including the design and start-up of new and upgraded systems. He has experience in implementation of corporate energy management programs across manufacturing facilities.He is a member of the ZDHC Board of Directors and the ZDHC Wastewater Council of ZDHC. He is on the Higg FEM Strategic Council of Cascale. Jimmy is currently the Vice Chair of the Environmental Committee of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, and Chairman of the Standards Steering Committee of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.Jimmy earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, and a master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Clemson University.

Jimmy Summers is the Vice President of Environment, Health, and Safety, and Chief Sustainability Officer at Elevate Textiles, Inc., manufacturer of distinguished fabric brands and thread solutions for automotive, apparel (including denim), interior furnishing, and specialty products. He is responsible for the EHS and Sustainability programs for the company’s 40 manufacturing facilities and support facilities throughout the world. Jimmy has worked in the textile and apparel industry for over 25 years, both in manufacturing and corporate positions. Summers has significant experience in managing textile wastewater treatment systems around the world, including the design and start-up of new and upgraded systems. He has experience in implementation of corporate energy management programs across manufacturing facilities.He is a member of the ZDHC Board of Directors and the ZDHC Wastewater Council of ZDHC. He is on the Higg FEM Strategic Council of Cascale. Jimmy is currently the Vice Chair of the Environmental Committee of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, and Chairman of the Standards Steering Committee of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.Jimmy earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, and a master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Clemson University.

Joleen Ong

Senior Director, Brand & Retailer Membership, Cascale

Joleen Ong

Senior Director, Brand & Retailer Membership, Cascale

Joleen Ong is the Senior Director of Brand and Retailer Membership at Cascale, where she leads all aspects of member engagement to drive industry-wide sustainability impact through the use of Higg Index tools.

With over 15 years of experience in sustainability and human rights within the apparel and footwear industries, Joleen has deep expertise in operationalizing Higg Index tools across brands. Before joining Cascale, she served as the Sustainability Director at Fanatics, where she led the integration of sustainability practices and responsible purchasing initiatives across the enterprise. Prior to Fanatics, she led the Sustainable Manufacturing program at Columbia Sportswear, where she developed supply chain sustainability and climate program and oversaw social responsibility efforts for global licensees. Joleen began her career in the nonprofit sector at Social Accountability International, where she established its communications program and co-founded the Global Living Wage Coalition.

Joleen holds a Master’s in Nonprofit and Sustainability Management from The New School and a Bachelor’s in International Studies, Spanish, and Anthropology from the College of New Jersey. A published writer and editor of two award-winning short documentaries, she serves on the Board of Days for Girls International and the Advisory Board of the University of Oregon’s Sports Product Management program, where she frequently lectures. She’s currently based in Portland, Oregon.

Joleen Ong is the Senior Director of Brand and Retailer Membership at Cascale, where she leads all aspects of member engagement to drive industry-wide sustainability impact through the use of Higg Index tools.

With over 15 years of experience in sustainability and human rights within the apparel and footwear industries, Joleen has deep expertise in operationalizing Higg Index tools across brands. Before joining Cascale, she served as the Sustainability Director at Fanatics, where she led the integration of sustainability practices and responsible purchasing initiatives across the enterprise. Prior to Fanatics, she led the Sustainable Manufacturing program at Columbia Sportswear, where she developed supply chain sustainability and climate program and oversaw social responsibility efforts for global licensees. Joleen began her career in the nonprofit sector at Social Accountability International, where she established its communications program and co-founded the Global Living Wage Coalition.

Joleen holds a Master’s in Nonprofit and Sustainability Management from The New School and a Bachelor’s in International Studies, Spanish, and Anthropology from the College of New Jersey. A published writer and editor of two award-winning short documentaries, she serves on the Board of Days for Girls International and the Advisory Board of the University of Oregon’s Sports Product Management program, where she frequently lectures. She’s currently based in Portland, Oregon.

Jonathan Salmon

Head of Sustainability, Li & Fung

Jonathan Salmon

Head of Sustainability, Li & Fung

Jon leads the Sustainability department at Li & Fung, a supply chain management firm, collaborating with over 6,000 suppliers as well as numerous brands and retailers across the textile and hardgoods sectors in Europe, Americas and Oceania. His primary responsibilities include enhancing the environmental performance and compliance of suppliers and customers in critical areas such as decarbonization, water conservation, chemical safety, product life cycle assessment, and regulatory compliance, at both the factory and product levels. At the corporate level, Jon coordinates companywide environmental programs such as Science Based Targets and contributes to the ESG reporting.

Before working with Li & Fung, Jon was employed by the retailer Etam where he spearheaded the sustainability initiatives encompassing supply chain, products and corporate practices. His prior experience includes a focus on sustainability across various sectors including green buildings & energy efficiency, hospitality, airlines. Jon holds a Bachelor’s degree in environmental geography and a Master’s in sustainability and environment.

Jon leads the Sustainability department at Li & Fung, a supply chain management firm, collaborating with over 6,000 suppliers as well as numerous brands and retailers across the textile and hardgoods sectors in Europe, Americas and Oceania. His primary responsibilities include enhancing the environmental performance and compliance of suppliers and customers in critical areas such as decarbonization, water conservation, chemical safety, product life cycle assessment, and regulatory compliance, at both the factory and product levels. At the corporate level, Jon coordinates companywide environmental programs such as Science Based Targets and contributes to the ESG reporting.

Before working with Li & Fung, Jon was employed by the retailer Etam where he spearheaded the sustainability initiatives encompassing supply chain, products and corporate practices. His prior experience includes a focus on sustainability across various sectors including green buildings & energy efficiency, hospitality, airlines. Jon holds a Bachelor’s degree in environmental geography and a Master’s in sustainability and environment.

Dr. Joyce Tsoi

Senior Director, Decarbonization Program, Cascale

Dr. Joyce Tsoi

Senior Director, Decarbonization Program, Cascale

Joyce Tsoi is the Senior Director, Decarbonization Programs, Cascale. She leads Cascale’s Decarbonization programs and activities. She works closely with Cascale members and ecosystem partners to integrate sustainability into their business strategies, prioritize actions on climate change, accelerate sustainable environmental and social impacts and transform our industry into one that gives more than it takes- to the people and the planet.

She brings over 17 years of diverse global industry experience, leading global supply chain sustainability program for multinational companies, driving key corporate and industry-wide sustainability strategies and efforts through the adoption and verification of Higg tools, water and wastewater compliance program, Science Based Targets (SBTs), energy efficiency and renewable energy program across multiple industry sectors including apparel and footwear, electronics, hardgoods, home goods, food and beverage, home goods and toys industries globally. She is also a Honorary Senior Lecturer of the Sustainability Leadership and Governance Program at the University of Hong Kong.

Joyce Tsoi is the Senior Director, Decarbonization Programs, Cascale. She leads Cascale’s Decarbonization programs and activities. She works closely with Cascale members and ecosystem partners to integrate sustainability into their business strategies, prioritize actions on climate change, accelerate sustainable environmental and social impacts and transform our industry into one that gives more than it takes- to the people and the planet.

She brings over 17 years of diverse global industry experience, leading global supply chain sustainability program for multinational companies, driving key corporate and industry-wide sustainability strategies and efforts through the adoption and verification of Higg tools, water and wastewater compliance program, Science Based Targets (SBTs), energy efficiency and renewable energy program across multiple industry sectors including apparel and footwear, electronics, hardgoods, home goods, food and beverage, home goods and toys industries globally. She is also a Honorary Senior Lecturer of the Sustainability Leadership and Governance Program at the University of Hong Kong.

Julie Gretton

End-to-End Supply Chain Sustainability Lead, W.L. Gore & Associates

Julie Gretton

End-to-End Supply Chain Sustainability Lead, W.L. Gore & Associates

Julie leads Supply Chain Sustainability for Gore Fabrics. Responsible for shaping and implementing sustainability strategy across Gore’s own manufacturing plants and with upstream suppliers. Julie actively works across the whole value chain, collaborating with brand partners and upstream suppliers to drive progress in topics such as carbon reduction. Julie has worked in the Outdoor Sports industry for over 25 years, with leadership roles in materials development and innovation. She is trained as a textile engineer and holds a PhD in this field.

Julie leads Supply Chain Sustainability for Gore Fabrics. Responsible for shaping and implementing sustainability strategy across Gore’s own manufacturing plants and with upstream suppliers. Julie actively works across the whole value chain, collaborating with brand partners and upstream suppliers to drive progress in topics such as carbon reduction. Julie has worked in the Outdoor Sports industry for over 25 years, with leadership roles in materials development and innovation. She is trained as a textile engineer and holds a PhD in this field.

Karin Ekberg

CEO, Leadership & Sustainability

Karin Ekberg

CEO, Leadership & Sustainability

Karin is the CEO of Leadership & Sustainability, an approved FEM and SLCP verifying body with global presence.

Karin has a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Chalmers, Gothenburg, and ETH Zürich technical universities and a Diploma from post-studies in environmental management at the University of Zürich. She has more than 35 years of international consulting and industry experience in several sectors, based out of Switzerland, Brazil, Sweden, and Germany. Karin has spent five years in the position as Head of Environmental Services at adidas Group, one of the world’s leading sporting goods companies. At adidas, she was responsible for establishing and maintaining group-wide environmental strategies and programs for the company’s internal business operations and its global supply chain.

From 2012 to 2013, Karin was the inaugural Chair of the Board of Directors at Cascale. Karin is one of the first approved Cascale Higg FEM (Facility Environmental Module) verifier (general and chemical specialist) and trainer. She has also been engaged in several of the Cascale working groups related to the development of Higg FEM and participated in the stakeholder engagement on the verification evolution. Karin is also an approved Higg BRM (Brand and Retail Module) verifier.

Karin is the CEO of Leadership & Sustainability, an approved FEM and SLCP verifying body with global presence.

Karin has a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Chalmers, Gothenburg, and ETH Zürich technical universities and a Diploma from post-studies in environmental management at the University of Zürich. She has more than 35 years of international consulting and industry experience in several sectors, based out of Switzerland, Brazil, Sweden, and Germany. Karin has spent five years in the position as Head of Environmental Services at adidas Group, one of the world’s leading sporting goods companies. At adidas, she was responsible for establishing and maintaining group-wide environmental strategies and programs for the company’s internal business operations and its global supply chain.

From 2012 to 2013, Karin was the inaugural Chair of the Board of Directors at Cascale. Karin is one of the first approved Cascale Higg FEM (Facility Environmental Module) verifier (general and chemical specialist) and trainer. She has also been engaged in several of the Cascale working groups related to the development of Higg FEM and participated in the stakeholder engagement on the verification evolution. Karin is also an approved Higg BRM (Brand and Retail Module) verifier.

Katie Hess

Head of Product, Better Buying, Cascale

Katie Hess

Head of Product, Better Buying, Cascale

Katie Hess is the Head of Product, Better Buying, where she leads product vision and strategy, enhances internal research processes, and ensures that buyer and supplier needs remain at the forefront. Her work is dedicated to making data-driven insights more impactful, ultimately driving improvements in buyer purchasing practices.

With a strong background in product management and strategy, Katie has spent much of her career in the tech sector, holding roles ranging from Product Manager to Chief Strategy Officer at multiple SaaS start-ups and established organizations. She is passionate about building high-performing teams, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and keeping a sharp focus on purpose-driven work.

Katie Hess is the Head of Product, Better Buying, where she leads product vision and strategy, enhances internal research processes, and ensures that buyer and supplier needs remain at the forefront. Her work is dedicated to making data-driven insights more impactful, ultimately driving improvements in buyer purchasing practices.

With a strong background in product management and strategy, Katie has spent much of her career in the tech sector, holding roles ranging from Product Manager to Chief Strategy Officer at multiple SaaS start-ups and established organizations. She is passionate about building high-performing teams, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and keeping a sharp focus on purpose-driven work.

Kelci Degnian

Senior Manager, Brand & Retail Membership, Cascale

Kelci Degnian

Senior Manager, Brand & Retail Membership, Cascale

Kelci is the Senior Manager of Member Engagement for Brand & Retail. She is responsible for ensuring Cascale members have the support they need to fully utilize the Higg Index tools, achieve their impact goals, and contribute to the sector’s progress. She is currently based in Houston, Texas.

Before joining Cascale team, Kelci was the Projects & Partnerships Manager at the Allegheny County Library Association, maximizing social impact for the 71-site federated member system. She led myriad initiatives aligning partners from the private sector, nonprofits, boards of directors, and government to deliver value and ensure member success. Previously, Kelci was part of the Public Affairs team at Planned Parenthood, Los Angeles.

Kelci is a graduate of the University of Queensland, Australia. A passionate rock climber, she’ll take any excuse to travel and climb around the world. With few mountains in Texas, Kelci has turned her attention to mountain biking and coffee science.

Kelci is the Senior Manager of Member Engagement for Brand & Retail. She is responsible for ensuring Cascale members have the support they need to fully utilize the Higg Index tools, achieve their impact goals, and contribute to the sector’s progress. She is currently based in Houston, Texas.

Before joining Cascale team, Kelci was the Projects & Partnerships Manager at the Allegheny County Library Association, maximizing social impact for the 71-site federated member system. She led myriad initiatives aligning partners from the private sector, nonprofits, boards of directors, and government to deliver value and ensure member success. Previously, Kelci was part of the Public Affairs team at Planned Parenthood, Los Angeles.

Kelci is a graduate of the University of Queensland, Australia. A passionate rock climber, she’ll take any excuse to travel and climb around the world. With few mountains in Texas, Kelci has turned her attention to mountain biking and coffee science.

Kim Drenner

Head of Environmental Impact, Patagonia

Kim Drenner

Head of Environmental Impact, Patagonia

Kim Drenner is a sustainability professional with over 15 years of experience helping companies and governments integrate sustainability within their operations. She is currently the Head of Environmental Impact at Patagonia where she leads the strategy and implementation of Patagonia’s environmental programs across product, within the global supply chain and owned/operated. In her role at Patagonia, she has visited suppliers all over the world, working in partnership to create environmentally responsible supply chains. She has been instrumental in defining Patagonia’s supply chain decarbonization strategy and program, including helping the company to commit to Science Based Targets.

Prior to joining Patagonia, she was a consultant in EY’s Climate Change and Sustainability Services practice working with clients across utilities, governments, financial services, mining and energy integrating sustainability into their business strategies. She brings extensive experience in GHG accounting and assurance under mandatory and voluntary reporting frameworks in Canada and the US. She also has a background in environmental compliance and EHS having worked for a large aviation defense manufacturer. She holds both a Master and Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a minor in business from TCU.

Kim Drenner is a sustainability professional with over 15 years of experience helping companies and governments integrate sustainability within their operations. She is currently the Head of Environmental Impact at Patagonia where she leads the strategy and implementation of Patagonia’s environmental programs across product, within the global supply chain and owned/operated. In her role at Patagonia, she has visited suppliers all over the world, working in partnership to create environmentally responsible supply chains. She has been instrumental in defining Patagonia’s supply chain decarbonization strategy and program, including helping the company to commit to Science Based Targets.

Prior to joining Patagonia, she was a consultant in EY’s Climate Change and Sustainability Services practice working with clients across utilities, governments, financial services, mining and energy integrating sustainability into their business strategies. She brings extensive experience in GHG accounting and assurance under mandatory and voluntary reporting frameworks in Canada and the US. She also has a background in environmental compliance and EHS having worked for a large aviation defense manufacturer. She holds both a Master and Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a minor in business from TCU.

Kim van der Weerd

CEO, Fashion Producer Collective

Kim van der Weerd

CEO, Fashion Producer Collective

Kim van der Weerd is a human rights advocate turned garment factory manager turned sustainable fashion critic. She is on a mission to shift the narrative and amplify producer perspectives on what sustainable fashion should mean and how it should be done. Currently, that takes the form of running the Fashion Producer Collective, a new producer-led sustainability think tank.

Kim van der Weerd is a human rights advocate turned garment factory manager turned sustainable fashion critic. She is on a mission to shift the narrative and amplify producer perspectives on what sustainable fashion should mean and how it should be done. Currently, that takes the form of running the Fashion Producer Collective, a new producer-led sustainability think tank.

Kyle Chung

AGM - Sustainability, Crystal International

Kyle Chung

AGM - Sustainability, Crystal International

With over 17 years of experience in sustainability, Kyle spearheads the Group’s environmental program and ESG communications of Crystal International. He leads the corporate sustainability team in accomplishing the Group Global 5-year Targets, overseeing the Net Zero 2050, Sustainability Vision 2030 vision and strategy, and elevating the Group ESG rating and factories’ performance holistically.To extend the advancement of sustainability practices in the industry, he has been actively taking different professional roles within various institutions and NGOs, such as FEM Strategic Council of SAC, task teams of UNFICCA Working Groups, Expert Advisory Group for Apparel and Footwear Sector SBT Guidance of the SBTi. Kyle is a Chartered Environmentalist, a chartered member of the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management, and a life member of the Association of Energy Engineers.

With over 17 years of experience in sustainability, Kyle spearheads the Group’s environmental program and ESG communications of Crystal International. He leads the corporate sustainability team in accomplishing the Group Global 5-year Targets, overseeing the Net Zero 2050, Sustainability Vision 2030 vision and strategy, and elevating the Group ESG rating and factories’ performance holistically.To extend the advancement of sustainability practices in the industry, he has been actively taking different professional roles within various institutions and NGOs, such as FEM Strategic Council of SAC, task teams of UNFICCA Working Groups, Expert Advisory Group for Apparel and Footwear Sector SBT Guidance of the SBTi. Kyle is a Chartered Environmentalist, a chartered member of the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management, and a life member of the Association of Energy Engineers.

Laura Wang

Marketing Senior Manager, Tiong Liong Industrial co., LTD.

Laura Wang

Marketing Senior Manager, Tiong Liong Industrial co., LTD.

I have over 20 years of experience in the textile industry, working directly with more than 10 global brands on material support and vendor compliance. TLC has been a member of Cascale since 2011, and 2025 HK is my sixth time attending the Cascale Annual Meeting.

I have over 20 years of experience in the textile industry, working directly with more than 10 global brands on material support and vendor compliance. TLC has been a member of Cascale since 2011, and 2025 HK is my sixth time attending the Cascale Annual Meeting.

Liam Salter

CEO, RESET Carbon

Liam Salter

CEO, RESET Carbon

Liam is Founder and CEO at RESET Carbon Ltd since 2009. RESET offers in-depth solutions to companies seeking to measure and reduce their carbon footprint with a particular focus on Asian supply chains.

Previously Liam was the Director of WWF’s International’s Asia-Pacific Climate Programme, where he built and managed a ten-country team. At WWF Liam also co-led the design and set-up of the Gold Standard, which is now a leading certification system for project level carbon offsets and other environmental and social attributes.

Liam holds a Masters of Science in Environmental Technology from Imperial College, London.

Liam is Founder and CEO at RESET Carbon Ltd since 2009. RESET offers in-depth solutions to companies seeking to measure and reduce their carbon footprint with a particular focus on Asian supply chains.

Previously Liam was the Director of WWF’s International’s Asia-Pacific Climate Programme, where he built and managed a ten-country team. At WWF Liam also co-led the design and set-up of the Gold Standard, which is now a leading certification system for project level carbon offsets and other environmental and social attributes.

Liam holds a Masters of Science in Environmental Technology from Imperial College, London.

Lisa Domoney

Senior Director, Strategic Growth, Cascale

Lisa Domoney

Senior Director, Strategic Growth, Cascale

Lisa Domoney is the Senior Director of Strategic Growth at Cascale. Together with her team, which includes Cascale’s member engagement, development and operations teams, she is responsible for ensuring the active engagement and overall satisfaction of members, as well as growing the organization’s corporate membership base. Lisa is based in the UK.

Prior to joining Cascale, Lisa was Director Responsible Sourcing for Walmart and Asda. She was part of the central leadership team, responsible for strategically positioning and implementing the global programme across 5 countries. She was architect for the Asda modern slavery strategy and board led steering committee and then went on to facilitate the separation from Walmart with the design of an independent responsible sourcing programme and Asda’s inaugural ESG report.

Earlier in her career, Lisa was at the forefront of social engagement projects at Sainsbury’s and Debenhams and is most proud of the accomplishment in her role on the board of the Bangladesh Accord which was instrumental to the legacy work accomplished on factory safety in Bangladesh and India.

In the last year, Lisa founded AVD Consulting, fulfilling a long-held ambition to take the expertise she developed throughout her 25 year career in global manufacturing and multinational retail, her passion for the apparel industry and support organizations to create real change.

Outside of work, Lisa spends time in the country with her dog, traveling with family, painting, and keeping fit. She is also trustee for a charity which is focused on long term care for modern slavery survivors.

Lisa Domoney is the Senior Director of Strategic Growth at Cascale. Together with her team, which includes Cascale’s member engagement, development and operations teams, she is responsible for ensuring the active engagement and overall satisfaction of members, as well as growing the organization’s corporate membership base. Lisa is based in the UK.

Prior to joining Cascale, Lisa was Director Responsible Sourcing for Walmart and Asda. She was part of the central leadership team, responsible for strategically positioning and implementing the global programme across 5 countries. She was architect for the Asda modern slavery strategy and board led steering committee and then went on to facilitate the separation from Walmart with the design of an independent responsible sourcing programme and Asda’s inaugural ESG report.

Earlier in her career, Lisa was at the forefront of social engagement projects at Sainsbury’s and Debenhams and is most proud of the accomplishment in her role on the board of the Bangladesh Accord which was instrumental to the legacy work accomplished on factory safety in Bangladesh and India.

In the last year, Lisa founded AVD Consulting, fulfilling a long-held ambition to take the expertise she developed throughout her 25 year career in global manufacturing and multinational retail, her passion for the apparel industry and support organizations to create real change.

Outside of work, Lisa spends time in the country with her dog, traveling with family, painting, and keeping fit. She is also trustee for a charity which is focused on long term care for modern slavery survivors.

Lisa Frost

Climate Programs Director, Apparel Impact Institute

Lisa Frost

Climate Programs Director, Apparel Impact Institute

With over 25 years experience of fabric technology and raw material sourcing, I have specialised in delivering fabrics and trims on time, to spec, and compliantly across a global supplier network. My industry experience includes intimates, activewear, outerwear, and more….with deep regional knowledge across Asia, the EU, and the US.

My expertise spans strategic sourcing, product development, negotiations, claims resolution, capacity planning, and sustainability initiatives including ESG, ZDHC, and Higg Index programs. I am deeply passionate about environmental responsibility and the future resilience of the textile industry, from fibre to finished product.I’ve led high-performing, cross-regional teams, fostering autonomy, confidence, and influence through structured development and collaborative leadership. My management style is solutions-focused and people-centric—balancing strategic oversight with trust, mentorship, and clear communication. I build strong supplier partnerships rooted in transparency and long-term collaboration.Above all, I am committed to leadership that drives results, fosters innovation, and prioritizes sustainable, ethical practices.

With over 25 years experience of fabric technology and raw material sourcing, I have specialised in delivering fabrics and trims on time, to spec, and compliantly across a global supplier network. My industry experience includes intimates, activewear, outerwear, and more….with deep regional knowledge across Asia, the EU, and the US.

My expertise spans strategic sourcing, product development, negotiations, claims resolution, capacity planning, and sustainability initiatives including ESG, ZDHC, and Higg Index programs. I am deeply passionate about environmental responsibility and the future resilience of the textile industry, from fibre to finished product.I’ve led high-performing, cross-regional teams, fostering autonomy, confidence, and influence through structured development and collaborative leadership. My management style is solutions-focused and people-centric—balancing strategic oversight with trust, mentorship, and clear communication. I build strong supplier partnerships rooted in transparency and long-term collaboration.Above all, I am committed to leadership that drives results, fosters innovation, and prioritizes sustainable, ethical practices.

Liz Lipton-McCombie

Head of ESG & Sustainability, Nordstrom

Liz Lipton-McCombie

Head of ESG & Sustainability, Nordstrom

Liz Lipton-McCombie is the Head of ESG & Sustainability at Nordstrom, where her focus is aligning sustainability and business value to drive positive change. With a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, Liz leads a dedicated team focused on minimizing the environmental footprint of Nordstrom’s operations and products as well as driving responsible sourcing through supply chains.

Liz has 20 years of experience delivering sustainability programs through enhanced business practices and innovation, she has deep experience in planning and executing complex strategies across public and privately held companies. Her background includes sustainability leadership roles at Levi Strauss & Co. where she developed the strategy for more sustainable consumption, LRQA (previously ELEVATE Ltd.) and Li & Fung Ltd.

Liz Lipton-McCombie is the Head of ESG & Sustainability at Nordstrom, where her focus is aligning sustainability and business value to drive positive change. With a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, Liz leads a dedicated team focused on minimizing the environmental footprint of Nordstrom’s operations and products as well as driving responsible sourcing through supply chains.

Liz has 20 years of experience delivering sustainability programs through enhanced business practices and innovation, she has deep experience in planning and executing complex strategies across public and privately held companies. Her background includes sustainability leadership roles at Levi Strauss & Co. where she developed the strategy for more sustainable consumption, LRQA (previously ELEVATE Ltd.) and Li & Fung Ltd.

Maravillas Rodriguez Zarco

Senior Director, Higg Index Strategy & Operations, Cascale

Maravillas Rodriguez Zarco

Senior Director, Higg Index Strategy & Operations, Cascale

Maravillas Rodriguez Zarco is the Senior Director, Higg Index Strategy & Operations, at Cascale. As part of her role, she ensures that the Higg Index tool strategy and tool development roadmap are aligned with Cascale’s overall impact strategy and priorities, and that the different tool development roadmaps are integrated with each other and with other external programs. She also coordinates the Higg Index team’s internal operations to ensure the effective delivery of the team objectives across the different Higg Index teams. She collaborates across the organization to ensure coherent strategy execution, fostering alignment and operational effectiveness.

Before her current role, Maravillas was the Director, Higg Brand & Retail at Cascale. Her responsibilities included managing the Higg Brand and Retail Module and coordinating with Coalition members, facilities, and stakeholders to scale the implementation of this tool globally. Prior to her time at Cascale, she served for 10 years as the CSR & Sustainability Manager at Desigual, where she managed key projects aimed at minimizing the company’s environmental impact, while promoting ethical trading and human rights. This ensured the company operated responsibly across all facets. She also built strong relationships with stakeholders, fostering transparency in the company’s sustainability initiatives.

Prior to her tenure at Desigual, Maravillas worked as a Sustainability & CSR consultant, and she is a professional with over 15 years of experience.

Maravillas holds a degree in Biology from University of Seville and a Masters in Environmental Impact Assessment from University of Barcelona. In her free time she enjoys combining her two favorite hobbies: traveling and trying new food from all around the world. She also teaches Sustainability classes to Business and Communication masters degree students.

Maravillas Rodriguez Zarco is the Senior Director, Higg Index Strategy & Operations, at Cascale. As part of her role, she ensures that the Higg Index tool strategy and tool development roadmap are aligned with Cascale’s overall impact strategy and priorities, and that the different tool development roadmaps are integrated with each other and with other external programs. She also coordinates the Higg Index team’s internal operations to ensure the effective delivery of the team objectives across the different Higg Index teams. She collaborates across the organization to ensure coherent strategy execution, fostering alignment and operational effectiveness.

Before her current role, Maravillas was the Director, Higg Brand & Retail at Cascale. Her responsibilities included managing the Higg Brand and Retail Module and coordinating with Coalition members, facilities, and stakeholders to scale the implementation of this tool globally. Prior to her time at Cascale, she served for 10 years as the CSR & Sustainability Manager at Desigual, where she managed key projects aimed at minimizing the company’s environmental impact, while promoting ethical trading and human rights. This ensured the company operated responsibly across all facets. She also built strong relationships with stakeholders, fostering transparency in the company’s sustainability initiatives.

Prior to her tenure at Desigual, Maravillas worked as a Sustainability & CSR consultant, and she is a professional with over 15 years of experience.

Maravillas holds a degree in Biology from University of Seville and a Masters in Environmental Impact Assessment from University of Barcelona. In her free time she enjoys combining her two favorite hobbies: traveling and trying new food from all around the world. She also teaches Sustainability classes to Business and Communication masters degree students.

Marina Prados Espínola

Director, Policy Hub - Circularity for Apparel & Footwear

Marina Prados Espínola

Director, Policy Hub - Circularity for Apparel & Footwear

Marina Prados is the Director of the Policy Hub – Circularity for Apparel & Footwear, where she leads policy coordination and external engagement across the textile value chain. She drives technical discussions with global stakeholders—from manufacturers to recyclers—on implementing legislative instruments that promote circularity and sustainability in the sector. Marina also spearheads dialogue with European institutions and industry representatives on key topics such as eco-design requirements for textiles, due diligence obligations, business-to-business and business-to-consumer communication, product composition, and textile waste management, ensuring policies are both ambitious and grounded in the sector’s practical realities.

Marina Prados is the Director of the Policy Hub – Circularity for Apparel & Footwear, where she leads policy coordination and external engagement across the textile value chain. She drives technical discussions with global stakeholders—from manufacturers to recyclers—on implementing legislative instruments that promote circularity and sustainability in the sector. Marina also spearheads dialogue with European institutions and industry representatives on key topics such as eco-design requirements for textiles, due diligence obligations, business-to-business and business-to-consumer communication, product composition, and textile waste management, ensuring policies are both ambitious and grounded in the sector’s practical realities.

Marissa Maren

Commissioner & Director, Busana Apparel Group

Marissa Maren

Commissioner & Director, Busana Apparel Group

Born into a multicultural family, with an Irish-/Swedish-American mother and an Indian-Indonesian father, Marissa has lived two-thirds of her life in Southeast Asia. She currently resides in Singapore, with her husband and three children.

She started her career as an investment banking analyst for Lehman Brothers where she lived through the firm’s collapse in 2008 and continued through the takeover by Barclays Capital.

She joined Busana Apparel Group in 2010 to lead Business Development and has served in a variety of leadership roles across the group, managing finance, marketing, operations and human resources. She is passionate about seeing the company grow sustainably as it empowers over 30,000 people, 90% of which are women, across factories in Indonesia, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Nicaragua and India. She currently serves as a Commissioner and Director across Busana Apparel Group companies, where she guides corporate strategy and strategic partnerships.

She also currently serves on the board of TrustBridge Global Foundation, which provides cross-border grant making for donors who wish to support charities and foundations anywhere around the world and sends over $2 billion a year to 70,000 charities in over 85 countries on 6 continents.

Marissa holds a Bachelor of Science degree magna cum laude from Tufts University (USA) with a major in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Entrepreneurial Leadership. She also holds a Masters in Business Administration with distinction from the University of Oxford (UK).

Born into a multicultural family, with an Irish-/Swedish-American mother and an Indian-Indonesian father, Marissa has lived two-thirds of her life in Southeast Asia. She currently resides in Singapore, with her husband and three children.

She started her career as an investment banking analyst for Lehman Brothers where she lived through the firm’s collapse in 2008 and continued through the takeover by Barclays Capital.

She joined Busana Apparel Group in 2010 to lead Business Development and has served in a variety of leadership roles across the group, managing finance, marketing, operations and human resources. She is passionate about seeing the company grow sustainably as it empowers over 30,000 people, 90% of which are women, across factories in Indonesia, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Nicaragua and India. She currently serves as a Commissioner and Director across Busana Apparel Group companies, where she guides corporate strategy and strategic partnerships.

She also currently serves on the board of TrustBridge Global Foundation, which provides cross-border grant making for donors who wish to support charities and foundations anywhere around the world and sends over $2 billion a year to 70,000 charities in over 85 countries on 6 continents.

Marissa holds a Bachelor of Science degree magna cum laude from Tufts University (USA) with a major in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Entrepreneurial Leadership. She also holds a Masters in Business Administration with distinction from the University of Oxford (UK).

Matthew Guenther

Vice President Corporate Sustainability, TAL Apparel Ltd.

Matthew Guenther

Vice President Corporate Sustainability, TAL Apparel Ltd.

Matthew Guenther is the Vice President Corporate Sustainability for TAL Apparel, a multi-national garment manufacturer. He oversees the implementation of the company’s sustainability strategy with a focus on climate action, circular economy, and worker wellbeing. He is also co-Chair of the Steering Committee for the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action. He holds a MSc in Environmental Policy from Bard College, and an BA in International Relations from Bilkent University. He currently resides in Singapore.

Matthew Guenther is the Vice President Corporate Sustainability for TAL Apparel, a multi-national garment manufacturer. He oversees the implementation of the company’s sustainability strategy with a focus on climate action, circular economy, and worker wellbeing. He is also co-Chair of the Steering Committee for the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action. He holds a MSc in Environmental Policy from Bard College, and an BA in International Relations from Bilkent University. He currently resides in Singapore.

Matthew Thurston

Divisional Vice President, Sustainability, REI

Matthew Thurston

Divisional Vice President, Sustainability, REI

Matthew Thurston serves as the Divisional Vice President of Sustainability & Community Affairs at REI Co-op, the largest consumer-owned co-operative in North America. REI is a specialty outdoor retailer with a mission to connect every person to the outdoors and engage them in the fight to protect it. The co-op has industry-leading commitments on climate and zero waste, supported by a global team of sustainability experts.

At REI, Matthew leads corporate sustainability, human rights, government affairs, and community engagement. He has a background in industrial ecology and supply chain sustainability with a focus on deep decarbonization. He lives in Seattle, WA with his wife and two sons.

Matthew Thurston serves as the Divisional Vice President of Sustainability & Community Affairs at REI Co-op, the largest consumer-owned co-operative in North America. REI is a specialty outdoor retailer with a mission to connect every person to the outdoors and engage them in the fight to protect it. The co-op has industry-leading commitments on climate and zero waste, supported by a global team of sustainability experts.

At REI, Matthew leads corporate sustainability, human rights, government affairs, and community engagement. He has a background in industrial ecology and supply chain sustainability with a focus on deep decarbonization. He lives in Seattle, WA with his wife and two sons.

Matthijs Crietee

Secretary General, International Apparel Federation (IAF)

Matthijs Crietee

Secretary General, International Apparel Federation (IAF)

Matthijs’ (Masters degree in International Economics and Economic Geography) career is fully focused on the fashion industry. As deputy director of the Dutch fashion industry association MODINT he build up an important part of MODINT’s consultancy, specializing on trade policy, sourcing, export support and sustainability.

He joined the International Apparel Federation in 2012 and since 2014 he is its Secretary General. The IAF has become a major force in the global apparel industry representing the interests of apparel industry associations and (large) apparel manufacturing groups from in total over 40 countries on all continents. Together with an IAF member organization and with the IAF’s sister federation ITMF, Matthijs every year organizes the influential IAF”s World Fashion Convention which acts as a major global industry meeting place and knowledge platform. IAF is co-initiator of the STTI, the 10 country, 13 association collaboration of garment manufacturing associations created to add the manufacturers’ voice and expertise to the crucial topic of the improvement of purchasing practices.

Matthijs’ (Masters degree in International Economics and Economic Geography) career is fully focused on the fashion industry. As deputy director of the Dutch fashion industry association MODINT he build up an important part of MODINT’s consultancy, specializing on trade policy, sourcing, export support and sustainability.

He joined the International Apparel Federation in 2012 and since 2014 he is its Secretary General. The IAF has become a major force in the global apparel industry representing the interests of apparel industry associations and (large) apparel manufacturing groups from in total over 40 countries on all continents. Together with an IAF member organization and with the IAF’s sister federation ITMF, Matthijs every year organizes the influential IAF”s World Fashion Convention which acts as a major global industry meeting place and knowledge platform. IAF is co-initiator of the STTI, the 10 country, 13 association collaboration of garment manufacturing associations created to add the manufacturers’ voice and expertise to the crucial topic of the improvement of purchasing practices.

Mayko Tatsuyama Mathisen

Group ESG Director, Trimco Group

Mayko Tatsuyama Mathisen

Group ESG Director, Trimco Group

Mayko Mathisen is the Group ESG Director at Trimco Group, where she leads environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives across 23 global sites. With over 17 years of experience spanning industries such as education, food, private investment, and technology, she brings a holistic perspective to integrating sustainability into core business strategies.

After earning her bachelor’s degree, Mayko began her career promoting sustainable living through charity work and improving waste management at Food for All. She later conducted ESG due diligence for private investors and contributed to ESG reporting and improvements in ESG practices at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology. Her passion for environmental stewardship also led her to volunteer on organic farms worldwide, gaining firsthand insights into agricultural challenges. Following her master’s studies in climate change, she worked on greenhouse gas calculations and impact assessments of operations for Soil Steam International focusing on soil regeneration.

At Trimco Group, she leverages this diverse background to advance impactful sustainability strategies that enhance both environmental performance and business value while fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Her goal is to inspire broader participation in sustainability efforts and create innovative solutions that drive meaningful change across industries.

Mayko Mathisen is the Group ESG Director at Trimco Group, where she leads environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives across 23 global sites. With over 17 years of experience spanning industries such as education, food, private investment, and technology, she brings a holistic perspective to integrating sustainability into core business strategies.

After earning her bachelor’s degree, Mayko began her career promoting sustainable living through charity work and improving waste management at Food for All. She later conducted ESG due diligence for private investors and contributed to ESG reporting and improvements in ESG practices at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology. Her passion for environmental stewardship also led her to volunteer on organic farms worldwide, gaining firsthand insights into agricultural challenges. Following her master’s studies in climate change, she worked on greenhouse gas calculations and impact assessments of operations for Soil Steam International focusing on soil regeneration.

At Trimco Group, she leverages this diverse background to advance impactful sustainability strategies that enhance both environmental performance and business value while fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Her goal is to inspire broader participation in sustainability efforts and create innovative solutions that drive meaningful change across industries.

Michael Cai

Director, Operations & Supply Chain, Décor Global

Michael Cai

Director, Operations & Supply Chain, Décor Global

Michael Cai is the Director of Operations & Supply Chain at Décor Global, managing a sophisticated supply chain at a global scale. He is a veteran in the textile and garmentindustry since 1998, with extensive experience in sourcing & merchandising, product development, operations and supply chain management, responsible sourcing and sustainability. Michael was elected to the SLCP Council in March 2021 and has actively participated in the Council work. He is now chairing the Supervisory Board and the Strategy Committee of SLCP. Michael is passionate, open-minded and eager to contribute his part for a better world for all.

Décor Global is a full-service global apparel & accessory manufacturer founded in 1994, known for the commitment to integrity, responsibility & ESG, fashion-forward product offers, speed-to-market, flexibility & innovation, and global supply chain management.

Michael Cai is the Director of Operations & Supply Chain at Décor Global, managing a sophisticated supply chain at a global scale. He is a veteran in the textile and garmentindustry since 1998, with extensive experience in sourcing & merchandising, product development, operations and supply chain management, responsible sourcing and sustainability. Michael was elected to the SLCP Council in March 2021 and has actively participated in the Council work. He is now chairing the Supervisory Board and the Strategy Committee of SLCP. Michael is passionate, open-minded and eager to contribute his part for a better world for all.

Décor Global is a full-service global apparel & accessory manufacturer founded in 1994, known for the commitment to integrity, responsibility & ESG, fashion-forward product offers, speed-to-market, flexibility & innovation, and global supply chain management.

Muhammad Fauz ul Azeem

General Manager, Corporate Sustainability & Chemical Management, Interloop

Muhammad Fauz ul Azeem

General Manager, Corporate Sustainability & Chemical Management, Interloop

Nicole Lee-Kauer

MCAP Coordinator, Cascale

Nicole Lee-Kauer

MCAP Coordinator, Cascale

Nicole is a sustainability professional passionate about driving climate action and biodiversity preservation across the consumer goods sector. As the Program Coordinator for Cascale’s Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP), Nicole supports 58 manufacturers—particularly across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region—in setting and validating science-aligned targets (SATs) for Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions. MCAP plays a crucial role within Cascale’s Decarbonization Program, working toward reducing industry emissions by 45% by 2030.

Having volunteered and worked with various nonprofits focused on climate action, Nicole brings hands-on experience and a proven ability to drive meaningful impact. In addition to coordinating MCAP, Nicole has provided climate and biodiversity consulting services to companies both in the APAC region and internationally, helping them integrate environmental considerations into their operations. She has supported organizations in setting Science-Based Targets (SBTs), building GHG inventories, analyzing emissions data, and developing decarbonization strategies. Nicole holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Business, which complements her practical expertise in both regional and global climate action.

At the Cascale Forum in Ho Chi Minh City, Nicole will facilitate the MCAP session and lead a focused training on setting SBTs—empowering manufacturers and brand partners with the tools to turn their climate commitments into action.

Nicole is a sustainability professional passionate about driving climate action and biodiversity preservation across the consumer goods sector. As the Program Coordinator for Cascale’s Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP), Nicole supports 58 manufacturers—particularly across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region—in setting and validating science-aligned targets (SATs) for Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions. MCAP plays a crucial role within Cascale’s Decarbonization Program, working toward reducing industry emissions by 45% by 2030.

Having volunteered and worked with various nonprofits focused on climate action, Nicole brings hands-on experience and a proven ability to drive meaningful impact. In addition to coordinating MCAP, Nicole has provided climate and biodiversity consulting services to companies both in the APAC region and internationally, helping them integrate environmental considerations into their operations. She has supported organizations in setting Science-Based Targets (SBTs), building GHG inventories, analyzing emissions data, and developing decarbonization strategies. Nicole holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Business, which complements her practical expertise in both regional and global climate action.

At the Cascale Forum in Ho Chi Minh City, Nicole will facilitate the MCAP session and lead a focused training on setting SBTs—empowering manufacturers and brand partners with the tools to turn their climate commitments into action.

Nikhil Hirdaramani

Director, Hirdaramani Apparel

Nikhil Hirdaramani

Director, Hirdaramani Apparel

Nikhil Hirdaramani is a Director of Hirdaramani Group: The Hirdaramani Group is a global apparel manufacturer providing integrated apparel design, production and distribution solutions to premium global brands.

Nikhil has over 25 years experience in the industry and is extremely passionate and committed to influencing  sustainable development through wider industry collaboration and led the development of the group’s 2025 sustainability roadmap ‘Future First’

Nikhil is a strong advocate of using his experience and voice to influence wider industry engagement and has served in leadership roles in a number of multistakeholder initiatives: He has been the Vice Chair of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (Cascale) and has served as a Director of both Higg Co and SEDEX. He has also been involved in the Social and Labor Convergence Program since its inception and presently is on its management board and chairs its governance committee.

Nikhil is an active member leader of Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), and presently oversees global partnerships. Some of the  organizations that have United Nations, IFC and World Economic Forum as well as the implementation of the EO sustainability strategy.

Nikhil has a BA in International Relations from Tufts University, USA and an MBA from Imperial College, UK.

Nikhil Hirdaramani is a Director of Hirdaramani Group: The Hirdaramani Group is a global apparel manufacturer providing integrated apparel design, production and distribution solutions to premium global brands.

Nikhil has over 25 years experience in the industry and is extremely passionate and committed to influencing  sustainable development through wider industry collaboration and led the development of the group’s 2025 sustainability roadmap ‘Future First’

Nikhil is a strong advocate of using his experience and voice to influence wider industry engagement and has served in leadership roles in a number of multistakeholder initiatives: He has been the Vice Chair of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (Cascale) and has served as a Director of both Higg Co and SEDEX. He has also been involved in the Social and Labor Convergence Program since its inception and presently is on its management board and chairs its governance committee.

Nikhil is an active member leader of Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), and presently oversees global partnerships. Some of the  organizations that have United Nations, IFC and World Economic Forum as well as the implementation of the EO sustainability strategy.

Nikhil has a BA in International Relations from Tufts University, USA and an MBA from Imperial College, UK.

Nikki Wood

Director, Governance, Cascale

Nikki Wood

Director, Governance, Cascale

Nikki Wood is the Director of Governance at Cascale. She ensures that Cascale’s Governance processes are fair, inclusive and transparent and empower our members to actively participate in Cascale’s work. She is based in the United Kingdom.

Nikki has previously held the positions of Head of Stakeholder Engagement at The Marine Stewardship Council and Director of Corporate & Stakeholder Relations for the Global Reporting Initiative. She has a background in stakeholder engagement, governance of Multistakeholder initiatives (MSIs), sustainability and programme management.

Nikki Wood is the Director of Governance at Cascale. She ensures that Cascale’s Governance processes are fair, inclusive and transparent and empower our members to actively participate in Cascale’s work. She is based in the United Kingdom.

Nikki has previously held the positions of Head of Stakeholder Engagement at The Marine Stewardship Council and Director of Corporate & Stakeholder Relations for the Global Reporting Initiative. She has a background in stakeholder engagement, governance of Multistakeholder initiatives (MSIs), sustainability and programme management.

Nilanthi Wijegunawardena

Quality & Group Compliance Lead, Stretchline Holdings Limited

Nilanthi Wijegunawardena

Quality & Group Compliance Lead, Stretchline Holdings Limited

I am Nilanthi Wijegunawardena, having 30 years of experience in the textile industry. Starting my career in 1996 at Ocean Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, and joined Stretchline Holdings Ltd in 2000 and have since played a key leadership role in sustainability, compliance, and quality management across 6 manufacturing facilities around the globe.As a member of the Executive Committee, I provide strategic direction across Stretchline Holdings global operations in environmental sustainability, quality management systems, social and ethical compliance, and chemical management. I am dedicated to aligning business objectives with responsible environmental stewardship by introducing best practices, innovative tools, and performance monitoring systems to achieve measurable results.Passionate about innovation and collaboration, thrive on identifying creative strategies to balance business growth with the responsibility of supporting and improving both local and global environments. Strongly involved in declaring brand compliance & sustainability agreements by working closely with leading brand compliance teams. Lead Higg FEM & FSLM verified assessments across 6 manufacturing plants.

I am Nilanthi Wijegunawardena, having 30 years of experience in the textile industry. Starting my career in 1996 at Ocean Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, and joined Stretchline Holdings Ltd in 2000 and have since played a key leadership role in sustainability, compliance, and quality management across 6 manufacturing facilities around the globe.As a member of the Executive Committee, I provide strategic direction across Stretchline Holdings global operations in environmental sustainability, quality management systems, social and ethical compliance, and chemical management. I am dedicated to aligning business objectives with responsible environmental stewardship by introducing best practices, innovative tools, and performance monitoring systems to achieve measurable results.Passionate about innovation and collaboration, thrive on identifying creative strategies to balance business growth with the responsibility of supporting and improving both local and global environments. Strongly involved in declaring brand compliance & sustainability agreements by working closely with leading brand compliance teams. Lead Higg FEM & FSLM verified assessments across 6 manufacturing plants.

Nilesh Bucktowar

Head of Sustainability - Ciel Textile Region, CIEL Textile

Nilesh Bucktowar

Head of Sustainability - Ciel Textile Region, CIEL Textile

With over 16 years of experience in the textile industry, I am currently the Head of Sustainability at CIEL Textile (Woven Cluster) , a leading global manufacturer of garments and fabrics. I am responsible for developing and implementing the sustainability strategy and vision for the group, aligning with the international standards and frameworks such as the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. I also lead the Woven Cluster, a collaborative platform that fosters innovation and best practices among the woven garment factories across the region. In my previous role as the Regional Sustainability Manager at Aquarelle Group, I successfully managed the environmental and social performance of the group’s operations in India, Bangladesh, and Madagascar, achieving multiple certifications and awards for sustainability excellence. I have a strong background in chemical and environmental engineering, and I have completed an executive education program in strategic leadership from the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore. I am passionate about creating positive impact and value for the stakeholders, the environment, and the society, through sustainable and ethical business practices. I would like to leverage my expertise and skills in ESG and TCFD, and to collaborate with like-minded professionals and organizations that share my vision and mission.

With over 16 years of experience in the textile industry, I am currently the Head of Sustainability at CIEL Textile (Woven Cluster) , a leading global manufacturer of garments and fabrics. I am responsible for developing and implementing the sustainability strategy and vision for the group, aligning with the international standards and frameworks such as the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. I also lead the Woven Cluster, a collaborative platform that fosters innovation and best practices among the woven garment factories across the region. In my previous role as the Regional Sustainability Manager at Aquarelle Group, I successfully managed the environmental and social performance of the group’s operations in India, Bangladesh, and Madagascar, achieving multiple certifications and awards for sustainability excellence. I have a strong background in chemical and environmental engineering, and I have completed an executive education program in strategic leadership from the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore. I am passionate about creating positive impact and value for the stakeholders, the environment, and the society, through sustainable and ethical business practices. I would like to leverage my expertise and skills in ESG and TCFD, and to collaborate with like-minded professionals and organizations that share my vision and mission.

Ninh Trinh

Director, Responsible Sourcing and Sustainable Capabilities, Target

Ninh Trinh

Director, Responsible Sourcing and Sustainable Capabilities, Target

Ninh Trinh is Director of Responsible Sourcing & Sustainability at Target, where he has led transformative change across supply chain oversight, worker well-being, and environmental performance. With more than two decades at Target in leadership roles spanning compliance, HR, product development, and sustainability, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to industry transformation. In his current role, he leads global oversight efforts focused on driving convergence and operational efficiency in sustainability. Ninh serves on the SLCP Management Board and other industry advisory groups, and as co-lead of the SLCP Brand Cohort he works to advance innovation and collaboration with industry stakeholders. Based in Hong Kong, he partners globally to align responsible sourcing with lasting impact.

Ninh Trinh is Director of Responsible Sourcing & Sustainability at Target, where he has led transformative change across supply chain oversight, worker well-being, and environmental performance. With more than two decades at Target in leadership roles spanning compliance, HR, product development, and sustainability, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to industry transformation. In his current role, he leads global oversight efforts focused on driving convergence and operational efficiency in sustainability. Ninh serves on the SLCP Management Board and other industry advisory groups, and as co-lead of the SLCP Brand Cohort he works to advance innovation and collaboration with industry stakeholders. Based in Hong Kong, he partners globally to align responsible sourcing with lasting impact.

Nuzhat Bushra Shejuti

Community Manager, Open Supply Hub

Nuzhat Bushra Shejuti

Community Manager, Open Supply Hub

I am currently the Community Manager for Open Supply Hub, a global nonprofit platform focused on mapping supply chains and promoting ethical sourcing practices.

My role primarily involves engaging with local stakeholders in the textile and apparel sector. I facilitate partnerships between Open Supply Hub and industry organizations, and I work to promote the use of open data to improve working conditions and enhance traceability within the supply chain. For a broader impact, I am also dedicated to empowering civil society and brands with reliable supply chain data, bridging the gap between global transparency initiatives and local manufacturing realities. As part of the Stakeholder Engagement team, highlights of my work include partnering with various trade associations and engaging other MSIs.

With over a decade of experience in data management and stakeholder engagement, I have had the privilege of working with key organizations such as the International Accord, the RMG Sustainability Council, and the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh.

Virtual Speaker

I am currently the Community Manager for Open Supply Hub, a global nonprofit platform focused on mapping supply chains and promoting ethical sourcing practices.

My role primarily involves engaging with local stakeholders in the textile and apparel sector. I facilitate partnerships between Open Supply Hub and industry organizations, and I work to promote the use of open data to improve working conditions and enhance traceability within the supply chain. For a broader impact, I am also dedicated to empowering civil society and brands with reliable supply chain data, bridging the gap between global transparency initiatives and local manufacturing realities. As part of the Stakeholder Engagement team, highlights of my work include partnering with various trade associations and engaging other MSIs.

With over a decade of experience in data management and stakeholder engagement, I have had the privilege of working with key organizations such as the International Accord, the RMG Sustainability Council, and the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh.

Virtual Speaker

Paul Lennen

Managing Director, Weave Services Limited

Paul Lennen

Managing Director, Weave Services Limited

Paul Lennen is an accomplished professional with extensive expertise in supply chain management, business strategy, and functional strategy. As Managing Director at Weave, Paul provides thought leadership in strategy, change management, and transformation, blending operational experience, business leadership, and digital advancements to deliver innovative solutions for clients.Currently, Paul is focused on shaping the future of sourcing in fashion retail, emphasizing the importance of connecting internal stakeholders and value chain partners. He explores the optimal application of new digital tools to enhance commercial, environmental, and social outcomes. Additionally, Paul is committed to leveraging his strategic skills in the NGO sector, working to create greater opportunities for children to access funding and support for education.

Paul Lennen is an accomplished professional with extensive expertise in supply chain management, business strategy, and functional strategy. As Managing Director at Weave, Paul provides thought leadership in strategy, change management, and transformation, blending operational experience, business leadership, and digital advancements to deliver innovative solutions for clients.Currently, Paul is focused on shaping the future of sourcing in fashion retail, emphasizing the importance of connecting internal stakeholders and value chain partners. He explores the optimal application of new digital tools to enhance commercial, environmental, and social outcomes. Additionally, Paul is committed to leveraging his strategic skills in the NGO sector, working to create greater opportunities for children to access funding and support for education.

Paula Bernstein

Associate Director, Sustainability Science, Worldly

Paula Bernstein

Associate Director, Sustainability Science, Worldly

Paula Bernstein is the Associate Director of Sustainability Science at Worldly, where for the past six years she has worked on impact calculations and life cycle assessment (LCA) across the Worldly platform. She works closely with teams at Worldly and Cascale to develop and implement calculation methodology, build new life cycle assessment (LCA) models, and ensure data and methodologies follow the latest best practices and standards. Prior to joining Worldly, Paula worked as a consultant specializing in LCA across diverse industries. She is based in Brooklyn, New York.

Paula Bernstein is the Associate Director of Sustainability Science at Worldly, where for the past six years she has worked on impact calculations and life cycle assessment (LCA) across the Worldly platform. She works closely with teams at Worldly and Cascale to develop and implement calculation methodology, build new life cycle assessment (LCA) models, and ensure data and methodologies follow the latest best practices and standards. Prior to joining Worldly, Paula worked as a consultant specializing in LCA across diverse industries. She is based in Brooklyn, New York.

Phuong Do

Social Compliance Accreditation Director, Fair Labor Association

Phuong Do

Social Compliance Accreditation Director, Fair Labor Association

Phuong Do is FLA’s social compliance director, accreditation, overseeing the manufacturing accreditation program for companies. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Do is the key driver of FLA’s activities in Vietnam and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC).

Before joining FLA in 2018, Do spent 10 years with adidas Sourcing Limited in Vietnam. She has 18 years of expertise in the field of social compliance, supplier monitoring, training and capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and project management. In Vietnam, Phuong is senior advisor for a focus group working with VCCI, MOLISA, and additional stakeholders as part of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to develop a labor law reform roadmap. She is an active member of the Vietnam Buyers Forum and a cooperated professor for TUV Rheiland Vietnam and SGS Vietnam.

Fluent in Vietnamese and English, Phuong obtained her bachelor’s degree in international journalism, social science, and humanities from Ho Chi Minh University and her master’s degree in supply chain management from IEA Business Sorbonne Paris.

Phuong Do is FLA’s social compliance director, accreditation, overseeing the manufacturing accreditation program for companies. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Do is the key driver of FLA’s activities in Vietnam and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC).

Before joining FLA in 2018, Do spent 10 years with adidas Sourcing Limited in Vietnam. She has 18 years of expertise in the field of social compliance, supplier monitoring, training and capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and project management. In Vietnam, Phuong is senior advisor for a focus group working with VCCI, MOLISA, and additional stakeholders as part of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to develop a labor law reform roadmap. She is an active member of the Vietnam Buyers Forum and a cooperated professor for TUV Rheiland Vietnam and SGS Vietnam.

Fluent in Vietnamese and English, Phuong obtained her bachelor’s degree in international journalism, social science, and humanities from Ho Chi Minh University and her master’s degree in supply chain management from IEA Business Sorbonne Paris.

Pranjal Jyoti Goswami

Chief Sustainability Officer, Gokaldas Exports Limited

Pranjal Jyoti Goswami

Chief Sustainability Officer, Gokaldas Exports Limited

As Chief Sustainability Officer at Gokaldas Exports Limited, Pranjal Jyoti Goswami leads the company’s sustainability roadmap, embedding ethical sourcing, circular economy principles, and global compliance frameworks into core business operations. With over 20 years of experience across corporate, policy, and non-profit sectors, he has a proven record of driving ESG integration, climate action, and stakeholder engagement, enabling organizations to achieve ambitious sustainability goals.Pranjal has played a pivotal role in shaping sustainability as a strategic business driver, influencing policy frameworks, and delivering measurable environmental and social impact. His expertise spans diverse industries, including textiles, biotechnology, food and beverages, leather, agriculture, and consumer goods. Widely respected for his ability to translate global sustainability standards into practical business strategies, he is recognized for building strong partnerships and steering transformative initiatives.He holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Hygiene, and his thought leadership has established him as a trusted advisor and prominent voice in the sustainability arena.

As Chief Sustainability Officer at Gokaldas Exports Limited, Pranjal Jyoti Goswami leads the company’s sustainability roadmap, embedding ethical sourcing, circular economy principles, and global compliance frameworks into core business operations. With over 20 years of experience across corporate, policy, and non-profit sectors, he has a proven record of driving ESG integration, climate action, and stakeholder engagement, enabling organizations to achieve ambitious sustainability goals.Pranjal has played a pivotal role in shaping sustainability as a strategic business driver, influencing policy frameworks, and delivering measurable environmental and social impact. His expertise spans diverse industries, including textiles, biotechnology, food and beverages, leather, agriculture, and consumer goods. Widely respected for his ability to translate global sustainability standards into practical business strategies, he is recognized for building strong partnerships and steering transformative initiatives.He holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Hygiene, and his thought leadership has established him as a trusted advisor and prominent voice in the sustainability arena.

Prasanth Nandakumar

Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Cascale

Prasanth Nandakumar

Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Cascale

Prasanth Nandakumar is the Stakeholder Engagement Manager for APAC at Cascale. He is responsible for developing the right network of relationships to support the delivery of Cascale Strategic Plan and implementation of the Stakeholder Engagement Strategy. As one of the key Cascale contacts for identified stakeholders, he ensures proactive engagement and cooperation among Cascale’s members, the broader industry, and strategic stakeholders.

Prasanth Nandakumar is the Stakeholder Engagement Manager for APAC at Cascale. He is responsible for developing the right network of relationships to support the delivery of Cascale Strategic Plan and implementation of the Stakeholder Engagement Strategy. As one of the key Cascale contacts for identified stakeholders, he ensures proactive engagement and cooperation among Cascale’s members, the broader industry, and strategic stakeholders.

Quentin Thorel

Group Head of Sustainability, CIEL Textiles

Quentin Thorel

Group Head of Sustainability, CIEL Textiles

Quentin Thorel is the Group Head of Sustainability of CIEL Textile since August 2021. He has been working in the textile industry for the past 8 years. Experienced in driving sustainability across tier 1, 2 and 3 of the textile and apparel value chain.

With the aim of embedding sustainability in all business processes at CIEL Textile, Quentin is leading the Sustainability teams of the 11 business units representing 20 factories, with a focus on business model transformation, driven by positive impact.

About CIEL Textile: https://cieltextile.com

CIEL Textile is a textile and apparel manufacturer, with a strategic geographical positioning and employing more than 25,000 employees across Mauritius, Madagascar, India and Bangladesh. With a strong foundation based on three pillars – talents, sustainable development and digitalisation, the Group has, since the past 50 years, provided transformational solutions to its customers, contributing to their success in the fashion world.

Quentin Thorel is the Group Head of Sustainability of CIEL Textile since August 2021. He has been working in the textile industry for the past 8 years. Experienced in driving sustainability across tier 1, 2 and 3 of the textile and apparel value chain.

With the aim of embedding sustainability in all business processes at CIEL Textile, Quentin is leading the Sustainability teams of the 11 business units representing 20 factories, with a focus on business model transformation, driven by positive impact.

About CIEL Textile: https://cieltextile.com

CIEL Textile is a textile and apparel manufacturer, with a strategic geographical positioning and employing more than 25,000 employees across Mauritius, Madagascar, India and Bangladesh. With a strong foundation based on three pillars – talents, sustainable development and digitalisation, the Group has, since the past 50 years, provided transformational solutions to its customers, contributing to their success in the fashion world.

Raffay Bin Rauf

Head of Sustainability, Sapphire Finishing Mills

Raffay Bin Rauf

Head of Sustainability, Sapphire Finishing Mills

Raffay Bin Rauf is the Head of Sustainability at Sapphire Finishing Mills, one of Pakistan’s leading textile exporters. With over 10 years of industry experience, Raffay leads company-wide initiatives to align with global sustainability frameworks and retailer expectations across ESG, environmental compliance, and social responsibility.

He has successfully presented over 2000 staff-day audits for multiple international standards in the manufacturing sector.

At Sapphire Finishing, he is driving and advocating sustainable supply chain practices in line with CSRD, CSDDD, and global brand mandates. His strategic direction integrates product stewardship, compliance risk mitigation, and sustainable innovation.

Raffay also leads the company’s digital presence and brand communications, ensuring consistency in storytelling and customer engagement around sustainability.He is passionate about embedding sustainability at the heart of business strategy and fostering climate-positive practices across the textile industry.

Raffay Bin Rauf is the Head of Sustainability at Sapphire Finishing Mills, one of Pakistan’s leading textile exporters. With over 10 years of industry experience, Raffay leads company-wide initiatives to align with global sustainability frameworks and retailer expectations across ESG, environmental compliance, and social responsibility.

He has successfully presented over 2000 staff-day audits for multiple international standards in the manufacturing sector.

At Sapphire Finishing, he is driving and advocating sustainable supply chain practices in line with CSRD, CSDDD, and global brand mandates. His strategic direction integrates product stewardship, compliance risk mitigation, and sustainable innovation.

Raffay also leads the company’s digital presence and brand communications, ensuring consistency in storytelling and customer engagement around sustainability.He is passionate about embedding sustainability at the heart of business strategy and fostering climate-positive practices across the textile industry.

Rakesh Vazirani

Director – Decarbonization & Cleaner Production, Bureau Veritas Consumer Product Services

Rakesh Vazirani

Director – Decarbonization & Cleaner Production, Bureau Veritas Consumer Product Services

a) 20 years of progressive international experience with ‘Product Sustainability assessment’, ‘Sustainable Production’, and Technical Due-Diligence for ‘Impact/Green Finance’ across 9 countries while working in India, Japan, Germany, Hong Kong, and UAE.

b) Executed multiyear Sustainability improvement projects with international development agencies and donors including GIZ (German government’s International Development Agency) WWF, UNEP with multiple stakeholders (Factories, Universities, NGO, Brands, Government)

c) Qualified for Sustainability/ESG planning and disclosure framework (GRI, IFRS SASB, EU ESRS, UNDP SDG Impact).

d) Mentor at HKSTP – Incubation and Acceleration Programmes, and UNDP Youth 4 Climate; Trainer for Climate Fresk & Climate Adaptation

Husband, Father to 2 girls, Child of civil servants, Student.

a) 20 years of progressive international experience with ‘Product Sustainability assessment’, ‘Sustainable Production’, and Technical Due-Diligence for ‘Impact/Green Finance’ across 9 countries while working in India, Japan, Germany, Hong Kong, and UAE.

b) Executed multiyear Sustainability improvement projects with international development agencies and donors including GIZ (German government’s International Development Agency) WWF, UNEP with multiple stakeholders (Factories, Universities, NGO, Brands, Government)

c) Qualified for Sustainability/ESG planning and disclosure framework (GRI, IFRS SASB, EU ESRS, UNDP SDG Impact).

d) Mentor at HKSTP – Incubation and Acceleration Programmes, and UNDP Youth 4 Climate; Trainer for Climate Fresk & Climate Adaptation

Husband, Father to 2 girls, Child of civil servants, Student.

Renukaprasad B

Associate Director - Ventures, Good Business Lab

Renukaprasad B

Associate Director - Ventures, Good Business Lab

Prasad is an Associate Director at Good Business Lab, where he leads the organization’s social sustainability technology and implementation portfolio. An IT engineer turned social entrepreneur, Prasad has played a pivotal role in scaling human rights due diligence (HRDD) solutions across over 100 supplier factories in South and Southeast Asia, directly impacting more than 350,000 workers and 3,000 management users.

His work bridges financial and buyer incentives with on-the-ground labor realities—facilitating uptake among major brands like H&M, Primark, Schneider Electric, Arvind Ltd., Shahi Exports, etc. to embed social compliance into ESG metrics and procurement strategies.

Prasad is an Associate Director at Good Business Lab, where he leads the organization’s social sustainability technology and implementation portfolio. An IT engineer turned social entrepreneur, Prasad has played a pivotal role in scaling human rights due diligence (HRDD) solutions across over 100 supplier factories in South and Southeast Asia, directly impacting more than 350,000 workers and 3,000 management users.

His work bridges financial and buyer incentives with on-the-ground labor realities—facilitating uptake among major brands like H&M, Primark, Schneider Electric, Arvind Ltd., Shahi Exports, etc. to embed social compliance into ESG metrics and procurement strategies.

Rick Horwitch

Chief of Sustainability & Supply Chain Strategy, Bureau Veritas

Rick Horwitch

Chief of Sustainability & Supply Chain Strategy, Bureau Veritas

Rick Horwitch is Chief of Sustainability & Supply Chain Strategy – for Bureau Veritas – Consumer Products Services. He has been with BV for 21 years. In this role, his focus is on developing Supply Chain Quality Management and Sustainability (SCQMS) solutions to help their customers protect their brands, reduce costs and ESG impacts, improve efficiencies and the customer experience.

Rick has over 40 years’ experience in the apparel, textile and consumer products industries covering all facets of business – sourcing, product development, sales, marketing and operations with companies such as Warnaco, Kurt Salmon Associates, and Deena.

He is regular speaker at conferences around the world, and an active participant on numerous industry and education boards, including:American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) – Board of DirectorsAmericas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN) – Executive Board (former Chairman)Advisory Boards of:Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New YorkUniversity of Delaware Department of Fashion & Design

Rick is a graduate of Tulane University. He is married, has two children, two grandchildren and lives in Calabasas, CA.

Rick Horwitch is Chief of Sustainability & Supply Chain Strategy – for Bureau Veritas – Consumer Products Services. He has been with BV for 21 years. In this role, his focus is on developing Supply Chain Quality Management and Sustainability (SCQMS) solutions to help their customers protect their brands, reduce costs and ESG impacts, improve efficiencies and the customer experience.

Rick has over 40 years’ experience in the apparel, textile and consumer products industries covering all facets of business – sourcing, product development, sales, marketing and operations with companies such as Warnaco, Kurt Salmon Associates, and Deena.

He is regular speaker at conferences around the world, and an active participant on numerous industry and education boards, including:American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) – Board of DirectorsAmericas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN) – Executive Board (former Chairman)Advisory Boards of:Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New YorkUniversity of Delaware Department of Fashion & Design

Rick is a graduate of Tulane University. He is married, has two children, two grandchildren and lives in Calabasas, CA.

Rick Ridgeway

President, Rick Ridgeway Productions, Inc.

Rick Ridgeway

President, Rick Ridgeway Productions, Inc.

Rick Ridgeway is an environmentalist, writer, photographer, filmmaker, and businessman who is also recognized as one of the world’s foremost mountaineers. For fifteen years beginning he oversaw environmental affairs at the outdoor clothing company Patagonia. Before joining Patagonia, he was owner/ president of Adventure Photo & Film, a leading stock photo and film agency. He has authored seven books—including his recent memoir Life Lived Wild, and dozens of magazine articles, and produced or directed many documentary films. Rick was honored by National Geographic with their Lifetime Achievement in Adventure Award and by the Explorers Club with their Explorers Medal. Rick serves on the boards of Tompkins Conservation, the Turtle Conservancy, and One Earth, and is on WWF’s National Council. He has three children and four grandchildren, and lives in Ojai, California.

Rick Ridgeway is an environmentalist, writer, photographer, filmmaker, and businessman who is also recognized as one of the world’s foremost mountaineers. For fifteen years beginning he oversaw environmental affairs at the outdoor clothing company Patagonia. Before joining Patagonia, he was owner/ president of Adventure Photo & Film, a leading stock photo and film agency. He has authored seven books—including his recent memoir Life Lived Wild, and dozens of magazine articles, and produced or directed many documentary films. Rick was honored by National Geographic with their Lifetime Achievement in Adventure Award and by the Explorers Club with their Explorers Medal. Rick serves on the boards of Tompkins Conservation, the Turtle Conservancy, and One Earth, and is on WWF’s National Council. He has three children and four grandchildren, and lives in Ojai, California.

Roger Lee

Chief Executive Officer, TAL Apparel

Roger Lee

Chief Executive Officer, TAL Apparel

Mr. Roger Lee, Chief Executive Officer, TAL Apparel Limited

A future-focused leader who joined the TAL Group (TAL) in 2005, Roger utilized his strong IT background to set TAL on a path toward innovation-led garment manufacturing as an INNOFACTURER®.

Shaped by his deep understanding of the garment industry, Roger has elevated TAL’s reach and ambition. With over 20,000 employees across Thailand, Vietnam, and Ethiopia, TAL has the capacity to produce over 50 million garments annually and supplies one in six men’s dress shirts sold in the U.S. By focusing on quality, timely delivery, and value for money, TAL has become one of Asia’s largest garment manufacturers. Roger also oversees the company’s wholesale and third-party logistics in the U.S.

Committed to strong values, Roger has intensified sustainability initiatives at TAL, establishing a purpose-driven company. In 2010, ahead of industry trends, TAL published its first Sustainability Report and set internal goals for greenhouse gas (GHG) and water reduction. TAL was among the first to commit to the UN Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action and is one of the few Asia-based companies with a net-zero target validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative, aiming to halve absolute emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050.

Mr. Roger Lee, Chief Executive Officer, TAL Apparel Limited

A future-focused leader who joined the TAL Group (TAL) in 2005, Roger utilized his strong IT background to set TAL on a path toward innovation-led garment manufacturing as an INNOFACTURER®.

Shaped by his deep understanding of the garment industry, Roger has elevated TAL’s reach and ambition. With over 20,000 employees across Thailand, Vietnam, and Ethiopia, TAL has the capacity to produce over 50 million garments annually and supplies one in six men’s dress shirts sold in the U.S. By focusing on quality, timely delivery, and value for money, TAL has become one of Asia’s largest garment manufacturers. Roger also oversees the company’s wholesale and third-party logistics in the U.S.

Committed to strong values, Roger has intensified sustainability initiatives at TAL, establishing a purpose-driven company. In 2010, ahead of industry trends, TAL published its first Sustainability Report and set internal goals for greenhouse gas (GHG) and water reduction. TAL was among the first to commit to the UN Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action and is one of the few Asia-based companies with a net-zero target validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative, aiming to halve absolute emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050.

Sally Peng

Senior Managing Director, FTI Consulting, & Vice Chairman, AmCham Hong Kong

Sally Peng

Senior Managing Director, FTI Consulting, & Vice Chairman, AmCham Hong Kong

Sally Peng is a Senior Managing Director and leads the APAC Export Controls, Sanctions & Trade practice at FTI Consulting. She is an expert in export controls, economic sanctions, international trade strategy, global supply chain optimization and trade compliance.

Sally has extensive experience advising public-listed companies on their complex encryption programs under U.S. laws and other Asia Pacific jurisdictions, including representing her clients in front of relevant government agencies in the APAC region. She also advises many Asia-based clients regarding U.S. and other sanctions regulations, primarily focusing on pre-IPO preparation and portfolio management. In addition, she works closely with her clients’ legal, procurement and logistics teams to build best-in-class export controls and sanctions compliance programs. Her industry coverage includes private equity and funds, semiconductor companies, Cloud and emerging technologies, telecommunications, national defense contractors, heavy machinery, and research universities.

During the ongoing U.S.-China trade war, Sally is sought after by her clients to advise them on mitigating strategies against U.S. Section 301 and 232 retaliation tariffs, free trade agreements, trade preference programmes and country of origin issues. Her industry coverage includes apparel, footwear, handbag and leather goods, hardline goods and consumer electronics.

Sally Peng is a Senior Managing Director and leads the APAC Export Controls, Sanctions & Trade practice at FTI Consulting. She is an expert in export controls, economic sanctions, international trade strategy, global supply chain optimization and trade compliance.

Sally has extensive experience advising public-listed companies on their complex encryption programs under U.S. laws and other Asia Pacific jurisdictions, including representing her clients in front of relevant government agencies in the APAC region. She also advises many Asia-based clients regarding U.S. and other sanctions regulations, primarily focusing on pre-IPO preparation and portfolio management. In addition, she works closely with her clients’ legal, procurement and logistics teams to build best-in-class export controls and sanctions compliance programs. Her industry coverage includes private equity and funds, semiconductor companies, Cloud and emerging technologies, telecommunications, national defense contractors, heavy machinery, and research universities.

During the ongoing U.S.-China trade war, Sally is sought after by her clients to advise them on mitigating strategies against U.S. Section 301 and 232 retaliation tariffs, free trade agreements, trade preference programmes and country of origin issues. Her industry coverage includes apparel, footwear, handbag and leather goods, hardline goods and consumer electronics.

Saqib Shahzad

Head of Sustainability, Sapphire - Diamond Fabrics Limited

Saqib Shahzad

Head of Sustainability, Sapphire - Diamond Fabrics Limited

With over 20 years of experience in the textile industry. He leads initiatives in regenerative agriculture, farm-level traceability, energy transition, and circularity, while ensuring alignment with global standards and customer codes. Saqib represents manufacturers’ voices at international forums, advocating stronger brand-supplier collaboration to achieve measurable sustainability impact. As the founder of Transformer Foundation and Cluster Head of GIZ Pakistan, he drives projects on Decarbonization, Legislation, Chemical Management, sustainable supply chains and Community of Pracatece. His work bridges the gap between manufacturing and upcoming legislation (CSDDD, CSRD), positioning textile manufacturing as a key player in shaping the industry’s sustainable future.

With over 20 years of experience in the textile industry. He leads initiatives in regenerative agriculture, farm-level traceability, energy transition, and circularity, while ensuring alignment with global standards and customer codes. Saqib represents manufacturers’ voices at international forums, advocating stronger brand-supplier collaboration to achieve measurable sustainability impact. As the founder of Transformer Foundation and Cluster Head of GIZ Pakistan, he drives projects on Decarbonization, Legislation, Chemical Management, sustainable supply chains and Community of Pracatece. His work bridges the gap between manufacturing and upcoming legislation (CSDDD, CSRD), positioning textile manufacturing as a key player in shaping the industry’s sustainable future.

Scott Raskin

CEO, Worldly

Scott Raskin

CEO, Worldly

Scott Raskin is the CEO of Worldly, where he champions the idea that impactful change springs from actionable measures. Leveraging years of leadership experience in tech companies, he steers Worldly toward sustainable growth, providing brands, manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers with solutions to enhance their positive environmental and social impact.

Scott’s commitment to results and customer satisfaction positions Worldly as an essential platform for consumer goods companies seeking to lessen their footprint, adhere to regulations, and promote transparency. His management style, deeply rooted in valuing people and culture, inspires creativity and teamwork. Guided by a firm resolve to create significant change, Scott’s leadership shapes Worldly’s contribution to a more responsible corporate world.

Scott is focused on leading the evolution and expansion of Worldly’s platform to include new capabilities, innovations, and automation to empower sustainability-minded companies to analyze, understand, report, and improve their supply chain and product impacts.

Scott Raskin is the CEO of Worldly, where he champions the idea that impactful change springs from actionable measures. Leveraging years of leadership experience in tech companies, he steers Worldly toward sustainable growth, providing brands, manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers with solutions to enhance their positive environmental and social impact.

Scott’s commitment to results and customer satisfaction positions Worldly as an essential platform for consumer goods companies seeking to lessen their footprint, adhere to regulations, and promote transparency. His management style, deeply rooted in valuing people and culture, inspires creativity and teamwork. Guided by a firm resolve to create significant change, Scott’s leadership shapes Worldly’s contribution to a more responsible corporate world.

Scott is focused on leading the evolution and expansion of Worldly’s platform to include new capabilities, innovations, and automation to empower sustainability-minded companies to analyze, understand, report, and improve their supply chain and product impacts.

Sean Cady

Vice President, Global Sustainability, Responsibility, Trade and Government Affairs, VF Corporation

Sean Cady

Vice President, Global Sustainability, Responsibility, Trade and Government Affairs, VF Corporation

Sean Cady is Vice President, Global Sustainability, Responsibility, Trade and Government Affairs at VF Corporation. VF Corporations is a global leader in lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories. VF is the owner of 12 iconic brands, including The North Face®, Vans®,  Timberland®, Dickies® and Supreme®.

Cady’s direction of VF’s global sustainability strategy has been instrumental in the  implementation of the company’s comprehensive and industry-leading actions to reduce the  environmental impacts of products, direct operations, and the supply chain. In leading VF’s global trade strategy, product stewardship team, government relations and global impact initiatives, Cady ensures best-in-class management of product impacts through design and  manufacturing due diligence, regulatory compliance, traceability, and substantiation of raw materials, while simultaneously representing VF’s interests to eliminate barriers to free trade. Additionally, he oversees the global responsible sourcing team across VF, ensuring the nearly 1 million workers making VF products, which are sold in more than 125 countries and over 1,200 owned retail stores across the globe, are assured fair treatment and a safe workplace.

Prior to joining VF in 2010, Cady led various teams at Levi Strauss & Co. His perspectives have been shared in numerous publications and at recent events such as the Textile Exchange  Sustainability Conference, the Redress Design Awards, MAGIC Las Vegas and the World  Business Forum.

Cady holds an M.B.A. in International Business and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of California. He serves on the Board of Directors for Cascale and Worldy and the advisory board for the Business for Impact program in Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business.

Sean Cady is Vice President, Global Sustainability, Responsibility, Trade and Government Affairs at VF Corporation. VF Corporations is a global leader in lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories. VF is the owner of 12 iconic brands, including The North Face®, Vans®,  Timberland®, Dickies® and Supreme®.

Cady’s direction of VF’s global sustainability strategy has been instrumental in the  implementation of the company’s comprehensive and industry-leading actions to reduce the  environmental impacts of products, direct operations, and the supply chain. In leading VF’s global trade strategy, product stewardship team, government relations and global impact initiatives, Cady ensures best-in-class management of product impacts through design and  manufacturing due diligence, regulatory compliance, traceability, and substantiation of raw materials, while simultaneously representing VF’s interests to eliminate barriers to free trade. Additionally, he oversees the global responsible sourcing team across VF, ensuring the nearly 1 million workers making VF products, which are sold in more than 125 countries and over 1,200 owned retail stores across the globe, are assured fair treatment and a safe workplace.

Prior to joining VF in 2010, Cady led various teams at Levi Strauss & Co. His perspectives have been shared in numerous publications and at recent events such as the Textile Exchange  Sustainability Conference, the Redress Design Awards, MAGIC Las Vegas and the World  Business Forum.

Cady holds an M.B.A. in International Business and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of California. He serves on the Board of Directors for Cascale and Worldy and the advisory board for the Business for Impact program in Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business.

Shasta O'Loughlin

Head of ESG, KMD Brands

Shasta O'Loughlin

Head of ESG, KMD Brands

Shasta O’Loughlin is a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience in retail, supply chain management and social and environment leadership. As the Head of ESG, Shasta has been instrumental in driving climate action initiatives, including setting Science-Based Targets (SBTi) and mandatory reporting.

In 2022, Shasta successfully led the Group’s B Corp certification, showcasing a commitment to high social and environmental performance standards. Shasta’s leadership extends to creating innovative programs such as Rip Curl’s global wetsuit take-back initiative and Kathmandu’s circular renewal program, REDU. Shasta chairs the Rip Curl Reconciliation Working Group and has launched Rip Curl’s Reflect and Innovate Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs), furthering efforts towards reconciliation and community engagement.Shasta has also fostered meaningful community partnerships with organisations like Surf Aid and the Surfrider Foundation, reflecting a deep love for the ocean and environmental stewardship. With a strategic approach to ESG, Shasta continues to make significant contributions to creating a more sustainable and socially responsible future.

Shasta O’Loughlin is a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience in retail, supply chain management and social and environment leadership. As the Head of ESG, Shasta has been instrumental in driving climate action initiatives, including setting Science-Based Targets (SBTi) and mandatory reporting.

In 2022, Shasta successfully led the Group’s B Corp certification, showcasing a commitment to high social and environmental performance standards. Shasta’s leadership extends to creating innovative programs such as Rip Curl’s global wetsuit take-back initiative and Kathmandu’s circular renewal program, REDU. Shasta chairs the Rip Curl Reconciliation Working Group and has launched Rip Curl’s Reflect and Innovate Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs), furthering efforts towards reconciliation and community engagement.Shasta has also fostered meaningful community partnerships with organisations like Surf Aid and the Surfrider Foundation, reflecting a deep love for the ocean and environmental stewardship. With a strategic approach to ESG, Shasta continues to make significant contributions to creating a more sustainable and socially responsible future.

Shreyaskar Chaudhary

Managing Director, Pratibha Syntex Ltd.

Shreyaskar Chaudhary

Managing Director, Pratibha Syntex Ltd.

Mr. Shreyaskar Chaudhary, Managing Director of Pratibha Syntex, leads a prominent textile manufacturing company renowned for its high-quality yarns and fabrics, and its commitment to sustainability and innovation. He holds a degree in Textile Technology from UMIST, Manchester. At 23, he launched the Organic Cotton Cultivation Project “Vasudha,” now India’s largest network of organic cotton farmers with 35,000 participants, fostering self-sustaining communities. A notable figure in sustainable fashion, Shreyaskar partners with global brands and certifications on pioneering projects and is actively involved in organizations like the Textile Exchange and the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. He currently serves as Chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Textiles Mill Association (MPTMA).

Mr. Shreyaskar Chaudhary, Managing Director of Pratibha Syntex, leads a prominent textile manufacturing company renowned for its high-quality yarns and fabrics, and its commitment to sustainability and innovation. He holds a degree in Textile Technology from UMIST, Manchester. At 23, he launched the Organic Cotton Cultivation Project “Vasudha,” now India’s largest network of organic cotton farmers with 35,000 participants, fostering self-sustaining communities. A notable figure in sustainable fashion, Shreyaskar partners with global brands and certifications on pioneering projects and is actively involved in organizations like the Textile Exchange and the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. He currently serves as Chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Textiles Mill Association (MPTMA).

Sovichea "Vic" Saron

Head of Secretariat , Sustainable Textiles of the Asian Region (STAR) Network

Sovichea "Vic" Saron

Head of Secretariat , Sustainable Textiles of the Asian Region (STAR) Network

Sovichea Saron is the Head of Secretariat of the Sustainable Textiles of the Asian Region (STAR) Network, Asia’s first inter-regional alliance of garment manufacturers’ associations spanning six countries: China, Cambodia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar. Based at TAFTAC Cambodia, he oversees STAR’s daily operations and regional coordination, while driving strategic initiatives to promote sustainability and responsible business practices across the garment and textile sector.

He manages a multinational team representing nine trade associations and leads STAR’s engagement in regional policy advocacy, multilateral dialogue, and cross-border collaboration. Sovichea plays a key role in addressing shared industry challenges – such as decarbonization, fair purchasing, audit fatigue, and human rights due diligence- on behalf of a sector representing nearly 50% of global garment exports.

With a strong background in regional cooperation and stakeholder engagement, Sovichea also oversees STAR’s partnerships, funding, and knowledge products, positioning the network as a leading voice for sustainable industrial transformation in Asia.

Sovichea Saron is the Head of Secretariat of the Sustainable Textiles of the Asian Region (STAR) Network, Asia’s first inter-regional alliance of garment manufacturers’ associations spanning six countries: China, Cambodia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar. Based at TAFTAC Cambodia, he oversees STAR’s daily operations and regional coordination, while driving strategic initiatives to promote sustainability and responsible business practices across the garment and textile sector.

He manages a multinational team representing nine trade associations and leads STAR’s engagement in regional policy advocacy, multilateral dialogue, and cross-border collaboration. Sovichea plays a key role in addressing shared industry challenges – such as decarbonization, fair purchasing, audit fatigue, and human rights due diligence- on behalf of a sector representing nearly 50% of global garment exports.

With a strong background in regional cooperation and stakeholder engagement, Sovichea also oversees STAR’s partnerships, funding, and knowledge products, positioning the network as a leading voice for sustainable industrial transformation in Asia.

Stanley Jia

Associate Director, Corporate Sustainability of ANTA, ANTA Sports Products Limited

Stanley Jia

Associate Director, Corporate Sustainability of ANTA, ANTA Sports Products Limited

15 years plus dedicate in the corporate social responsibility work and has served in the brands and NOG with focus at the supply chain transparency and workers’ rights protection. Stanley now is the associate director of the corporate sustainability department within ANTA group and mainly responsible for the group social responsibility strategies and projects.

15 years plus dedicate in the corporate social responsibility work and has served in the brands and NOG with focus at the supply chain transparency and workers’ rights protection. Stanley now is the associate director of the corporate sustainability department within ANTA group and mainly responsible for the group social responsibility strategies and projects.

Steve Harris

Chief Operating Officer, Social & Labor Convergence Program

Steve Harris

Chief Operating Officer, Social & Labor Convergence Program

Steve has over 30 years of experience in senior roles in technology and operations, working in sectors ranging from sustainability and food production to finance and Formula 1 racing. Steve has supported SLCP since 2017, initially as an external advisor, then as an independent expert Council member, before joining the secretariat in an interim role to lead its technology and finance functions. As Chief Operating Officer Steve is responsible for ensuring the organization works efficiently and effectively to execute its strategies and meet stakeholder expectations.

Steve has over 30 years of experience in senior roles in technology and operations, working in sectors ranging from sustainability and food production to finance and Formula 1 racing. Steve has supported SLCP since 2017, initially as an external advisor, then as an independent expert Council member, before joining the secretariat in an interim role to lead its technology and finance functions. As Chief Operating Officer Steve is responsible for ensuring the organization works efficiently and effectively to execute its strategies and meet stakeholder expectations.

Surya Valluri

Chief Sustainability Officer, Birla Cellulose & Grasim Industries Ltd., Birla Cellulose

Surya Valluri

Chief Sustainability Officer, Birla Cellulose & Grasim Industries Ltd., Birla Cellulose

Over 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supply chain domain. Worked across Manmade fibre, synthetic fibre, Steel, Logistics and cement sectors across geographies, India, Thailand and China.

Equipped with proficient functional knowledge, project commissioning, Business Development, heading P&L, Planning & Budgeting and Sustainability.

Passionate professional for environment and sustainability, where he has worked in many hard to abet industries for which he has contributed significantly towards sustainability. Keen interest in turnaround of businesses with sustainability focus, leadership development.

During his tenure at UltraTech Cement Co, ltd as sustainability head, company has signed EP-100, conducted Bio- diversity studies and implemented management plans, Started journey towards water positivity. Conducted water table study with help of ICRISAT and started projects on water shed management at two of most water critical plant location in coordination with NABARD

Also played crucial role in GCCA (Global cement and Concrete association) formulation and drafting the charter for the association along with global cement industry partners.

Over 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supply chain domain. Worked across Manmade fibre, synthetic fibre, Steel, Logistics and cement sectors across geographies, India, Thailand and China.

Equipped with proficient functional knowledge, project commissioning, Business Development, heading P&L, Planning & Budgeting and Sustainability.

Passionate professional for environment and sustainability, where he has worked in many hard to abet industries for which he has contributed significantly towards sustainability. Keen interest in turnaround of businesses with sustainability focus, leadership development.

During his tenure at UltraTech Cement Co, ltd as sustainability head, company has signed EP-100, conducted Bio- diversity studies and implemented management plans, Started journey towards water positivity. Conducted water table study with help of ICRISAT and started projects on water shed management at two of most water critical plant location in coordination with NABARD

Also played crucial role in GCCA (Global cement and Concrete association) formulation and drafting the charter for the association along with global cement industry partners.

Susan Scow

Sustainability Impact Specialist, EILEEN FISHER, Inc.

Susan Scow

Sustainability Impact Specialist, EILEEN FISHER, Inc.

Inspired by a love of global languages and the fair trade movement, Susan Scow pursued a sociology degree and ultimately an Impact MBA with greenhouse gas accounting certificate. In the meantime she worked on farms, in stores, and in housewares sourcing. Her education led her to her dream job at EILEEN FISHER, Inc., where she works with teams throughout the company on sustainability strategy and supports the company’s amazing suppliers on their efforts. She supports suppliers on both social and environmental sustainability, including decarbonization work, Fair Trade Certification, FEM analysis and improvement, SLCP-aligned analysis and improvement, women’s programs, and more. Some of Susan’s recent favorite work includes founding EILEEN FISHER’s Fair Trade program and establishing a coalition with Everlane and Reformation to jointly decarbonize shared facilities through Aii. Susan believes in relationships as the vessel for data and that for every sustainability ask a brand has of a supplier, the brand should demonstrate an equivalent initiative that they are asking of themselves.

Virtual Speaker

Inspired by a love of global languages and the fair trade movement, Susan Scow pursued a sociology degree and ultimately an Impact MBA with greenhouse gas accounting certificate. In the meantime she worked on farms, in stores, and in housewares sourcing. Her education led her to her dream job at EILEEN FISHER, Inc., where she works with teams throughout the company on sustainability strategy and supports the company’s amazing suppliers on their efforts. She supports suppliers on both social and environmental sustainability, including decarbonization work, Fair Trade Certification, FEM analysis and improvement, SLCP-aligned analysis and improvement, women’s programs, and more. Some of Susan’s recent favorite work includes founding EILEEN FISHER’s Fair Trade program and establishing a coalition with Everlane and Reformation to jointly decarbonize shared facilities through Aii. Susan believes in relationships as the vessel for data and that for every sustainability ask a brand has of a supplier, the brand should demonstrate an equivalent initiative that they are asking of themselves.

Virtual Speaker

Tamar Hoek

Senior Policy Director Sustainable Fashion, Solidaridad

Tamar Hoek

Senior Policy Director Sustainable Fashion, Solidaridad

Tamar Hoek is the Senior Policy Director Sustainable Fashion at Solidaridad, leading global advocacy to drive climate action, decent work, and responsible purchasing practices in fashion supply chains. She engages both private and public stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and regulatory frameworks. Tamar is active in multi-stakeholder platforms such as Cascale, Better Cotton, and the Policy Hub, where she plays a key role in shaping industry collaboration and policy alignment. She currently serves as Chair of both Cascale’s Board and Better Cotton’s Council, and holds several other board positions—demonstrating her leadership and trusted voice across the sustainable fashion sector. At Solidaridad, she drives impact by aligning industry actors to implement tangible improvements in fashion production and sustainable cotton uptake.

Tamar Hoek is the Senior Policy Director Sustainable Fashion at Solidaridad, leading global advocacy to drive climate action, decent work, and responsible purchasing practices in fashion supply chains. She engages both private and public stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and regulatory frameworks. Tamar is active in multi-stakeholder platforms such as Cascale, Better Cotton, and the Policy Hub, where she plays a key role in shaping industry collaboration and policy alignment. She currently serves as Chair of both Cascale’s Board and Better Cotton’s Council, and holds several other board positions—demonstrating her leadership and trusted voice across the sustainable fashion sector. At Solidaridad, she drives impact by aligning industry actors to implement tangible improvements in fashion production and sustainable cotton uptake.

Tensie Whelan

Distinguished Professor of Practice, Business and Society & Founding Director, NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business

Tensie Whelan

Distinguished Professor of Practice, Business and Society & Founding Director, NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business

Tensie Whelan is Distinguished Professor of Practice for Business and Society and the Founding Director of the NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business, where she is bringing her 25 years of experience working on local, national and international environmental and sustainability issues to engage businesses in proactive and innovative mainstreaming of sustainability.

As President of the Rainforest Alliance, she built the organization from a $4.5 million to $50 million budget, transforming the engagement of business with sustainability. Her previous work included serving as Executive Director of the New York League of Conservation Voters, Vice President of the National Audubon Society, Managing Editor of Ambio, a journal of the Swedish Academy of Sciences, and a journalist in Latin America.

Tensie has been recognized by Ethisphere as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Business Ethics and was a Citi Fellow in Leadership and Ethics at NYU Stern. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards and currently serves on the advisory boards of ALO Advisors, Edelman, Giant Ventures, Nespresso and Workiva and is an Advisor to the Future Economy Project for Harvard Business Review. Tensie holds a B.A. from New York University, an M.A. from American University, and is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Owner President Management (OPM) Program. She was awarded the Stern Faculty Excellence Award in 2020 and made Distinguished Professor of Practice in 2023 in recognition of her contributions to Stern.

Virtual Speaker

Tensie Whelan is Distinguished Professor of Practice for Business and Society and the Founding Director of the NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business, where she is bringing her 25 years of experience working on local, national and international environmental and sustainability issues to engage businesses in proactive and innovative mainstreaming of sustainability.

As President of the Rainforest Alliance, she built the organization from a $4.5 million to $50 million budget, transforming the engagement of business with sustainability. Her previous work included serving as Executive Director of the New York League of Conservation Voters, Vice President of the National Audubon Society, Managing Editor of Ambio, a journal of the Swedish Academy of Sciences, and a journalist in Latin America.

Tensie has been recognized by Ethisphere as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Business Ethics and was a Citi Fellow in Leadership and Ethics at NYU Stern. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards and currently serves on the advisory boards of ALO Advisors, Edelman, Giant Ventures, Nespresso and Workiva and is an Advisor to the Future Economy Project for Harvard Business Review. Tensie holds a B.A. from New York University, an M.A. from American University, and is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Owner President Management (OPM) Program. She was awarded the Stern Faculty Excellence Award in 2020 and made Distinguished Professor of Practice in 2023 in recognition of her contributions to Stern.

Virtual Speaker

Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka

Chief Sustainability Officer, Komar

Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka

Chief Sustainability Officer, Komar

Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Komar. He has a doctorate in sustainability, three masters, and two bachelors in the areas of environmental science, chemistry, business management, and project management. He oversees and leads the environmental sustainability and product sustainability pillars at Komar, focusing on decarbonization, water and wastewater management, chemical management, waste management, biodiversity, sustainable raw materials, sustainable packaging, product circularity, etc., internally and in its supply chain. Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka’s career combines environmental science and chemistry expertise with a commitment to sustainability, circularity, and innovation.

Before joining Komar, Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka held executive roles in ZDHC, M&S, and MAS Holdings. He has contributed to significant advancements in sustainability practices, emphasizing practical solutions for complex environmental challenges. Known for his ability to work under pressure, tackle difficult challenges, and think outside the box, Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka continues to drive Komar’s commitments to ethical and sustainable business models aligned with its 2030 sustainability strategy. “Sus-Tex 2030”.

Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Komar. He has a doctorate in sustainability, three masters, and two bachelors in the areas of environmental science, chemistry, business management, and project management. He oversees and leads the environmental sustainability and product sustainability pillars at Komar, focusing on decarbonization, water and wastewater management, chemical management, waste management, biodiversity, sustainable raw materials, sustainable packaging, product circularity, etc., internally and in its supply chain. Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka’s career combines environmental science and chemistry expertise with a commitment to sustainability, circularity, and innovation.

Before joining Komar, Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka held executive roles in ZDHC, M&S, and MAS Holdings. He has contributed to significant advancements in sustainability practices, emphasizing practical solutions for complex environmental challenges. Known for his ability to work under pressure, tackle difficult challenges, and think outside the box, Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka continues to drive Komar’s commitments to ethical and sustainable business models aligned with its 2030 sustainability strategy. “Sus-Tex 2030”.

Tom Mason

Senior Policy and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, SLCP

Tom Mason

Senior Policy and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, SLCP

Tom is responsible for the policy and stakeholder engagement strategy at SLCP and ensuring the CAF is recognized and aligned with policy and legal developments. Tom also works closely with the data insights and communications teams in developing data-driven publications to ensure the social and labor data is shared with the industry and policymakers to drive policy decision-making. Originally from Australia, Tom has experience working in international NGOs and legal clinics, focusing on business & human rights research and labour rights in global value chains.

Tom is responsible for the policy and stakeholder engagement strategy at SLCP and ensuring the CAF is recognized and aligned with policy and legal developments. Tom also works closely with the data insights and communications teams in developing data-driven publications to ensure the social and labor data is shared with the industry and policymakers to drive policy decision-making. Originally from Australia, Tom has experience working in international NGOs and legal clinics, focusing on business & human rights research and labour rights in global value chains.

Tracy Jiao

Factory Audit Dept. General Manager, HQTS

Tracy Jiao

Factory Audit Dept. General Manager, HQTS

SLCP & Higg FEM Program Lead and experienced Higg FEM/SLCP verifier and trainer, APSCA Certified Social Compliance Auditor (CSCA); auditor experienced with BSCl, SMETA, ICTI, WRAP, RBA, PEOP for accurate listing). 20+ years of social compliance and quality auditing experience – covering socialresponsibility, quality,environmental audits, and auditor training, Seasoned supply chain manager with extensive experience in publicly listed companies, skilled at turning audit findings into practical improvement plans.

SLCP & Higg FEM Program Lead and experienced Higg FEM/SLCP verifier and trainer, APSCA Certified Social Compliance Auditor (CSCA); auditor experienced with BSCl, SMETA, ICTI, WRAP, RBA, PEOP for accurate listing). 20+ years of social compliance and quality auditing experience – covering socialresponsibility, quality,environmental audits, and auditor training, Seasoned supply chain manager with extensive experience in publicly listed companies, skilled at turning audit findings into practical improvement plans.

Veronique Rochet

Senior Director of Sustainability, PUMA

Veronique Rochet

Senior Director of Sustainability, PUMA

Veronique Rochet has over 20 years of international experience in sustainability within the apparel, footwear, and accessories sectors. Her work has focused on developing long-term strategies that integrate sustainability objectives into business operations, while considering regional contexts.

In her role as Senior Director of Sustainability at PUMA, Veronique contributes to embedding sustainability into decision-making processes, aiming to balance ambition with practical implementation and support progress across the organization.

Veronique Rochet has over 20 years of international experience in sustainability within the apparel, footwear, and accessories sectors. Her work has focused on developing long-term strategies that integrate sustainability objectives into business operations, while considering regional contexts.

In her role as Senior Director of Sustainability at PUMA, Veronique contributes to embedding sustainability into decision-making processes, aiming to balance ambition with practical implementation and support progress across the organization.

Dr. Vidhura Ralapanawe

Executive Vice President, Epic Group

Dr. Vidhura Ralapanawe

Executive Vice President, Epic Group

Mr. Vidhura Ralapanawe has over 16 years of experience in apparel sustainability and has a background in climate research, energy transition, and renewable energy. Currently, he is dedicated to shaping Epic Group’s sustainability strategy and leading implementation across manufacturing, products, and the supply chain. Previously, he worked for 12 years at MAS Intimates. He is a contributor to resource efficiency, LCAs, green buildings, and sustainable product innovation.

Mr. Vidhura Ralapanawe has over 16 years of experience in apparel sustainability and has a background in climate research, energy transition, and renewable energy. Currently, he is dedicated to shaping Epic Group’s sustainability strategy and leading implementation across manufacturing, products, and the supply chain. Previously, he worked for 12 years at MAS Intimates. He is a contributor to resource efficiency, LCAs, green buildings, and sustainable product innovation.