Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), the nonprofit that promotes responsible global standards for cotton production, on Wednesday said that Alan McClay will take the reins as chief executive, effective September 28.
He will replace Patrick Laine, who is retiring after two years in the role but will continue to manage specific BCI projects during the transition.
McClay’s prior experience comprises 25 years in senior leadership roles in the consumer goods industry, including time spent as executive vice president at The Consumer Goods Forum, and BCI is confident he will recruit dozens of new brands and retailers to the initiative during its next phase of growth.
“Moreover, his recent consulting work with NGOs and companies engaging in the sustainability journey will ensure our message will resonate with our target audiences,” said Susi Proudman, BCI council chair and vice president of global apparel materials at Nike.
“BCI has a solid strategy in place and a clear vision of where it wants to be in 2020. I look forward to working with the council and leading the BCI team, in alliance with its many partners around the globe, to deliver that vision of achieving transformation in the cotton sector,” McClay commented, noting, “BCI’s program of improved farming practices will not only contribute to the improved well-being of millions of farmers and a better environment, but also promote increased use of cotton by global brands, helping to ensure the long term viability of the sector.”