Radical transparency and real collaboration: Stahl’s Laura Willemsen on The Responsible Edge Podcast

What role does trust play in building a resilient, future-ready supply chain?

In the latest episode of The Responsible Edge, Laura Willemsen, Stahl’s Group Director of Marketing and Sustainability, joins host Charlie Martin to discuss the growing need for radical transparency and why it’s quickly becoming non-negotiable in today’s global value chains.

Reflecting on her own sustainability journey, Laura shares in the episode how early experiences shaped her pragmatic approach to leading change from within. From creating door-to-door nature booklets as a child to building data-driven ESG strategies today, her perspective is grounded in one core belief: meaningful progress takes collaboration across the value chain, as well as across industries.

Drawing on insights from the Financial Times article “Companies seek AI solutions to supply chain fragility”, Laura and Charlie explore how technology, data, and collaboration are shaping the future of responsible business.

Key takeaways from the episode:

1. Sustainability at the core: Laura explains how sustainability is truly embedded in Stahl’s strategy, not merely as a communications exercise but as a driver of real change, supported by Stahl’s ESG Roadmap and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)-aligned emission-reduction targets.
2. The power of collaboration: Addressing complex challenges like Scope 3 emissions requires working closely with suppliers, customers, and brands. Laura highlights the need for industry-wide cooperation and shared standards to create meaningful progress.
3. Pragmatic environmentalism: Laura describes herself as a “realist,” advocating for solutions that balance environmental responsibility with commercial realities. She emphasises that sustainable innovation must deliver value for all stakeholders.
4. Transparency and trust: The conversation underscores the need for transparent data and open dialogue, both within the value chain and with consumers, to build trust and drive responsible choices.

Laura’s perspective offers a blueprint for how companies can lead with purpose, combining commercial pragmatism with a genuine commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re interested in supply chain innovation, ESG leadership, or the future of responsible business, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration. As Laura puts it: “Tooling helps—but it’s trust, transparency, and shared commitment that truly move the needle.”

Discover the full conversation and learn more about how Stahl is helping to shape a better world through radical transparency and collaboration. Listen to the episode here or on Spotify.