Textile Exchange says it is adding strength and depth to the organisation’s leadership in order to help deliver its 2030 Climate+ Vision, with the appointment of a new chief operating officer hired from luxury brand Stella McCartney.
La Rhea Pepper, a co-founder of Textile Exchange, has taken up the role of CEO, alongside new COO Claire Bergkamp.
The move is an evolution in the organisation’s leadership team and happens at a vital time as Textile Exchange is leading the textile industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 with its Climate+ strategy.
“This is the decade for change,” says Pepper. “Now is the time to accelerate the adoption of proven solutions. Claire brings insight, experience, and passion to our 2030 Climate+ Vision. I am excited for her to join us in creating material change.”
Bergkamp held the position of worldwide sustainability and innovation director at Stella McCartney for more than eight years. In this role, she led the global environmental, human rights, and innovation strategy for the brand, building a qualified, high-functioning sustainability department and team, a purposeful strategy, and an ambitious project portfolio.
She will continue to act as senior advisor to the CEO and board of directors after her official departure from the business.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataBergkamp also serves in advisory and leadership positions for a wide range of collaborative initiatives, including the steering committee for the UNFCCC’s Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, where she is the co-chair for the Raw Materials Working Group. She is also on the steering committee for the British Fashion Council’s Institute of Positive Fashion.
Pepper will maintain a focus on industry engagement and standards while continuing to provide vision for the organisation. Bergkamp will oversee the implementation of the 2030 Climate+ Vision, the acceleration and fibre centres, as well as the shared measurement systems and digitalisation needs, and operations.
