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27 October 2026

The Leather Working Group (LWG) Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Christina Raab as Chief Executive Officer, effective 2 November 2026. Dr Raab will work alongside outgoing Executive Director Vanessa Podmore and Interim Director, Adam Hughes during a transition period ahead of Vanessa’s departure at the end of the year, ensuring continuity of leadership and a smooth handover.

Dr Raab brings extensive global leadership experience in advancing sustainable business practices and accelerating industry change. Most recently, she served as President & CEO of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute, advancing the adoption of safe, circular and responsible products and materials. Previously, she led global implementation and market transformation at ZDHC, driving environmental progress across the fashion industry. Earlier in her career, she held leadership roles at leading sustainability advisory firms, helping organisations integrate sustainability into business strategy and operations across sectors and regions.

LWG Board Chair David Wright comments: “Dr Raab is a highly respected leader in sustainability and innovation, she brings a strong track record of shaping industry standards, building influential global partnerships and leading mission-driven organisations through growth and transformation. We are delighted to welcome Dr Raab and look forward to her leadership in the continued advancement of our strategic priorities.”

CEO Christina Raab comments: “I have long admired the scientific rigor and technical expertise of LWG, and the commitment of its global community to advancing a more responsible leather industry. I am delighted to join the organisation at such a crucial time in its evolution, when credible standards, robust assurance, and measurable action are more important than ever. I look forward to leading LWG in delivering lasting value for its members and to working collaboratively across the wider LWG ecosystem to build a more resilient and sustainable future for the industry.”

The appointment comes at a significant time for LWG, as the organisation prepares to launch its new Sustainability System in 2027. Building on continued growth in membership, the adoption of its protocols and collaboration across the global leather value chain, LWG is strengthening its role in advancing sustainability and driving continuous improvement across the industry.