Vaishali Sali

I am passionate about supply chain sustainability because…

I am passionate about responsible sourcing and supply chain sustainability because I have seen first hand the profound impact our industry has on both people and the environment. As a director of a garment manufacturing company for the past 15 years in India, I believe we have a responsibility not only to produce quality goods, but to do so in a way that respects workers’ rights, promotes safe and fair working conditions, and minimises environmental harm.

For us, responsible sourcing means actively choosing sustainable materials, prioritising recyclable fabrics, and adopting greenline production and logistical practices that reduce our environmental footprint. To me it also means using data-driven traceability to ensure transparency across our supply chain, from raw materials to finished garments — so we can hold ourselves and our partners accountable. Responsible sourcing is not just a compliance requirement for the industry it is a path to long-term resilience, trust and ethical growth. I am committed to helping drive this transformation, ensuring that the voices of manufacturers, especially in the Global South, are included in shaping practical, scalable solutions that benefit businesses, workers and the planet.

Biography

I am a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in the garment manufacturing industry, leading operations that prioritise ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. As the CEO of Vaamil, a SMETA four-pillar audited apparel manufacturing organisation in Mumbai, I have developed a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics, buyer expectations and compliance requirements across global markets.

My background spans from hands-on merchandising and vendor coordination to strategic leadership, financial management, and team development. I have successfully aligned commercial growth with social and environmental responsibilities, focusing on traceability, low-impact materials, and transparent processes.

With evolving consumer behaviour, particularly generational shifts in buying habits and increased awareness around ethical fashion — I believe strongly in adapting supply chains to meet these expectations. Sellers must respond to real customer needs, not just market trends, and I bring practical insights into how that transformation can happen on the ground.

Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration from ESGCI Paris, I combine strategic thinking with operational experience to contribute meaningfully to responsible business practices. I look forward to bringing this perspective to the SHL Board to support its mission of driving positive change in global supply chains.

What I will bring to the SHL Board

The expertise I will bring to the Sedex Holdings Board is grounded in over 15 years of hands-on experience in the garment manufacturing industry in India, one of the most dynamic and complex supply chain environments in the world. I’ll be bringing a deep understanding of the full value chain, from sourcing raw materials and managing vendor networks, to navigating compliance, conducting ethical audits, and meeting buyer expectations across global markets.

My day-to-day experience balancing commercial demands with social and environmental responsibilities has given me a practical, real-world perspective on what responsible sourcing means on the ground. I have worked extensively on implementing better sourcing practices, integrating recyclable and low-impact materials, and adopting data-driven systems for traceability. I understand the operational challenges manufacturers face, and I’m committed to ensuring that solutions developed at the board level are realistic, inclusive, and effective in practice — not just on paper.

In addition, I bring a keen awareness of the changing customer psychology and evolving fashion consumption habits across generations. From Gen Z’s emphasis on sustainability and ethical production, to millennials’ preference for personalization and transparency, consumer expectations are shifting rapidly. Today’s customers are more informed and values-driven, and they demand that brands align with their principles. As a result, sellers are increasingly driven to offer what customers genuinely need and expect, rather than simply pushing products. This shift is reshaping the fashion landscape, and it’s crucial for Sedex to stay ahead of these trends to guide businesses in adapting responsibly and effectively.

I believe I can offer a practical, operations-focused perspective to the Board, ensuring that Sedex continues to evolve in ways that support both businesses and workers across the global supply chain — while staying responsive to the changing demands of the end consumer.