KERING FOR THE FUTURE

Sustainability seems like a pipe dream, but as the effects of climate change become increasingly apparent, it is a reality all businesses must face, including fashion. To understand exactly what this entails, we spoke with Marie-Claire Daveu, Kering's Chief Sustainability and Institutional Affairs Officer. She is an ardent champion of the subject matter - powerful, charismatic, and tirelessly fighting for radical change

- YONG WEI JIAN

Marie-Claire Daveu is no stranger to sustainability. She is, in fact, quite the expert. A graduate of the Paris Institute of Technology for Food and Environmental Sciences, Daveu has an extraordinary resume working for the French government, serving in illustrious positions such as technical advisor to the Prime Minister's cabinet as well as chief of staff to two Ministers of Ecology. Today, she outlines the eco strategies and ambitions as well as implements the best practices within the Kering Group and its luxury Maisons.

In May, Daveu visited Singapore to announce a three-year research collaboration with the Centre of Governance and Sustainability at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School. The goal is to study the nature-related strategies-adopted by businesses in the Asia Pacific region, and contribute these insights to the global agenda of sustainability and climate action. Despite her busy schedule, she took the time to sit down with L'OFFICIEL SINGAPORE and share more about the state of sustainability in fashion.

Let's begin with your role.

Before joining Kering in September 2012, I was working for the French government. My background is that of an engineer, but the fil rouge in my past work lies in sustainability and the environment. So that became my area of responsibility in the company. Frangois-Henri Pinault, our chairman and CEO, really believes in sustainability because, first, it is our ethical responsibility as one of the biggest luxury companies to lead by example. Second, sustainability is great for business. When we think about our products, and beyond that our supply chain and raw materials, most of them come directly from nature. That is why we have to change the paradigm and update our business models to take care of the planet. Frangois has a strong vision, and my role is really to transform his vision into reality.