Human Rights in Sustainable Procurement: Turning Commitments into Purchasing Decisions

Presenting Partner: TCO Certified

Human rights have long been a fundamental consideration in responsible procurement, but organizations continue to face challenges translating commitments into consistent purchasing decisions. Join this expert panel as they explore practical approaches for embedding human rights into procurement processes, engaging suppliers, and conducting meaningful due diligence. Through real-world examples and candid discussion, attendees will gain insights into overcoming common barriers, balancing human rights with traditional procurement priorities, and preparing for the evolving expectations shaping responsible supply chains. 

Panelists:

Andrew Baer, Head of Responsible Procurement, S&P Global

Andrew Baer currently serves as S&P Global’s Head of Responsible Procurement. As S&P’s first Head of Responsible Procurement, he created and continues to lead the company's procurement sustainability program and initiatives. Andrew came to that role with 20 years of experience in procurement, where he led complex, international technology deals and developed Sourcing and Vendor Management functions at leading financial services and technology firms.

Andrew is a founding member of the United Nations Global Compact's Coalition for Sustainable Procurement, which launched in June 2025. He holds degrees from American University and the University of Washington, and has earned a business and climate change certification from the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership.

His work with international sustainable procurement groups speaks to his passion for collaborative solutions to the sustainability issues. A fellow SPLC Board Member described Andrew as a “force in the Procurement Sustainability world” who seeks innovative ideas and collaboration. Andrew envisions a future where sustainable procurement is the norm, driving positive environmental and social impacts across industries. He believes that through collaboration and innovation, organizations can create a more sustainable, equitable and robust economy.

Stefan Henricson, Sustainable Procurement Manager, Essity 

Stefan Henricson is Sustainable Procurement Manager at Essity, focusing on sustainable supply chains, supplier due diligence, and responsible sourcing. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in global sourcing, quality, and sustainability, he works closely with suppliers and stakeholders to strengthen ESG performance across the value chain.

Clare Hobby, Director, External Engagement, Global,  TCO Development

Clare Hobby leads external engagement for TCO Certified, the worldwide sustainability certification for IT products. A dynamic, long-time sustainability advocate, Clare works with procurement and policymakers around the world to take action on critical environmental, climate and social responsibility challenges connected to the technology life cycle.

With over 20 years in sustainability, Clare currently serves in board and advisory roles with the Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council, the Clean Electronics Production Network and the UK Government Digital Sustainability Alliance, holding qualifications from University of Melbourne, Northwestern, and Harvard.

Madeline Sherman, Supply Chain Program Manager, Arizona State University 

Madeline Sherman is a Supply Chain Program Manager at Arizona State University, where she supports sustainable sourcing initiatives. After more than 10 years at ASU in primarily student-facing roles, she brings an understanding of the diverse needs of campus departments and stakeholders through her experience planning programs and events across the university.

Over the past two years, Madeline has focused on developing educational tools that help departments make sustainable purchasing decisions, incorporate sustainability into the scope of work for RFPs including janitorial and sustainable cleaning products, beverage services, and licensed apparel, and align ASU's sustainable sourcing strategy with university sustainability goals. She also authors ASU's Sustainable Purchasing Article Series, highlighting examples of sustainable procurement in action.
Madeline holds a Master of Natural Resources from Virginia Tech University and a Bachelor's in Fashion and Sustainability from New York University. At NYU, she took classes on the Brown Building, the site of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory, which deepened her interest in labor rights and responsible sourcing.

Questions? Please send an e-mail to webinars@sustainablepurchasing.org.