Liz Hershfield , a fashion industry veteran and sustainability expert, will lead Cotton Council International (CCI), the export arm of the National Cotton Council of America (NCC), as its new executive director. Liz Hershfield replaces Bruce Atherley, who retired at the end of March.
“Strong leadership and innovative strategies are essential to maintaining the competitiveness of American cotton,” said NCC President and CEO Gary Adams. “Liz is well-placed to strengthen COTTON USA programs by communicating the benefits of American cotton, providing American cotton farmers with more opportunities to thrive in a complex global marketplace.”
Liz Hershfield’s specialized expertise in sustainability, global sourcing, product development and comprehensive supply chain strategy, along with her extensive experience with American cotton, will take CCI to the next level of cotton processing through its COTTON USA brand and help advance global initiatives for American cotton.
“It’s never been more urgent to support American cotton,” said Liz Hershfield . “American cotton has an incredible story – rooted in quality, innovation and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, underscored by the trust earned through reliable COTTON USA partnerships.
“I am honored to join the talented team at CCI to drive the growth of demand and preference for American cotton across the global textile supply chain.”
Throughout her distinguished career, Liz Hershfield has led supply chain and sustainability initiatives for global established brands such as J.Crew, Madewell, and Gap Inc. In addition, she founded Green-ish, a consulting firm that helps businesses navigate the complexities of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and supply chain management.
Her contributions to sustainable fashion have earned her widespread recognition, including the Textile Exchange’s prestigious Ryan Young Climate+ Award for her pioneering regenerative cotton program to support American cotton farmers. Liz Hershfield has also received The Lead’s “Direct 60” award and has been named to the Rivet 50 Index for her leadership in the denim industry.
In her new role as CCI Executive Director, Liz Hershfield will leverage her extensive experience with American cotton and proven track record in sustainable fashion and supply chain management to globally elevate the “COTTON USA Difference” of superior American cotton and unparalleled partnerships within the global textile supply chain.
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