Following a majority vote at the General Assembly in June 2025, Fairtrade International established a Supervisory Board which replaced the former scope of Fairtrade International Board. It is composed between 9 to 13 members and is primarily responsible for the strategic guidance of Fairtrade International.
Rita de Sousa Coutinho (Independent representative) has been elected Chair, with Hend M.H. Kassab (Producer Network representative) and Rhea Beltrami (National Fairtrade Organisation representative) as Vice-Chairs.
Three new members join the Supervisory Board
In addition to the continuing members of the former Fairtrade International Board, three new members were elected during the General Assembly in June. Bringing fresh expertise and perspectives to Fairtrade’s global leadership.
Heike O’Donnell (Independent representative)
Heike O’Donnell is a KPMG-trained Chief Financial Officer, now serving as a senior advisor to impact-driven organisations. Until June 2025, she served as Vice Chair of the Supervisory Board of B Lab Germany, reflecting her commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and responsible business practices, values that inspired her to join the Fairtrade International Board. During her executive career, Heike held senior finance leadership roles at Visa Inc., Cable & Wireless, and Schlumberger, as well as in fast-growing technology ventures such as Payworks and Instagrid, where she continues to serve on the Advisory Board.
“I’m proud to join the Fairtrade International Board at a time when responsible business has never been more critical. I look forward to guiding Fairtrade in strengthening its role as the ‘standard of standards’ and remaining a global reference point for sustainability and equity in today’s ever-evolving world.” says Heike.
Peter D’Angremond (National Fairtrade Organisation representative)
Peter D’Angremond is extremely familiar with the Fairtrade, having formerly been the CEO Fairtrade Netherlands for over 15 years. He has also held various roles within the Fairtrade system, including as a member of the Fairtrade International Strategy Team and the Global Operations Team. Prior background includes strong marketing expertise and positions within the Schiphol Group and Disneyland Resort Paris.
“Joining the Board of Directors offers a wonderful opportunity to further contribute to the mission of Fairtrade. I’ve seen the positive impact Fairtrade can have, and I want to see even more of it. I’m committed to helping make the right strategic choices and ensuring we adapt swiftly to an ever-changing world.
My motivation is strong: to grow Fairtrade’s impact and to help foster a working environment where people take pride in their achievements, step forward with new ideas, and feel safe to learn from the mistakes they make.” explains Peter.
Tia Loftsgard (NFO nominated)
Executive Director of the Canada Organic Trade Association since 2016. Prior to that she was Chief Operating Officer at Fairtrade America and Business Development and Licensing Director for Fairtrade Canada. Before that she was the founder and sales director for La Siembra Cooperative, among others.
“I believe deeply in the power of trade to transform lives, when it’s rooted in equity, transparency, and respect. Fairtrade has always stood out to me as a movement that doesn’t just challenge the status quo, it offers a credible, scalable alternative.
My hope is we continue to evolve as a global leader in ethical trade. Expanding our reach, deepening impact, and staying bold in its advocacy.” states Tia.
As Fairtrade moves into its new strategic cycle, we are confident in the Board’s ability to drive us forward in pursuing our mission within an increasingly complex global landscape. Staying agile in action, united in purpose, and focused on lasting change.
