Felipe Arango Takes Charge as Fair Trade USA's New CEO
Fair Trade veteran to lead growth, emphasizing people and planet
The Board of Directors of Fair Trade USA (FTUSA) has appointed Felipe Arango as Chief Executive Officer. With a rich history in the organization, Arango previously held the position of Chief Operating Officer and Interim CEO after the founder stepped down.
Arango offers a remarkable combination of leadership and knowledge that lies at the heart of social capitalism, sustainability, and the fair trade movement. His journey began over 25 years ago in his native country, working closely with rural and Indigenous communities to enhance their livelihoods.
Before stepping into his role at FTUSA, Arango accumulated eight years of experience as a fair trade auditor and trainer, setting the stage for his impactful three-decade career. Throughout this time, he has worked alongside prestigious organizations like The World Bank Group and the United Nations. His experience encompasses advising corporate partners on sustainable practices and managing supply chains more responsibly.
Moreover, Arango has held the position of global CEO at BSD Consulting, where he led a network of consultancy firms dedicated to solving sustainable development challenges. His deep understanding of producer experiences and his credibility among industry experts will be invaluable for leading FTUSA in its future endeavors.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Arango stated, "I am grateful for the trust from the Board, staff, and all of our partners. Our commitment is to work hand in hand with farmers, workers, and fishers to eradicate poverty and uphold nature’s integrity. They are the heroes of the Fair Trade movement, supported by our conscientious consumers and partners, making us hopeful about Fair Trade Certified's future."
Arango's dedication to sustainable solutions and biodiversity is evident, and he aims to enhance the environmental commitments of Fair Trade USA as he steps into this leadership role.
Larry Ruff, a board member of FTUSA, shared his pride in Arango's appointment, stating, "As both a Board member and former President, I am excited to support Felipe in this role. The potential of Fair Trade USA is immense, and Felipe’s expertise in developing models that benefit both people and the planet will keep us at the forefront of tackling some of today’s most pressing challenges."
Taking on this critical role comes at a time defined by uncertainty across various sectors, including finance, supply chains, and climate-related issues. These factors greatly informed the Board's decision in selecting Fair Trade USA's next CEO.
According to Ricardo Crisantes, chair of the board, "Felipe is poised to drive transformative growth and impact at scale. His leadership has already fostered strong relationships within the organization and with our partners. His reputation for innovative solutions and empathy is setting a promising vision for Fair Trade USA in the years ahead."
Felipe Arango is also a devoted family man, with two daughters and a background that includes bachelor's degrees in political science and business administration from Boston University, as well as various industry accreditations.
About Fair Trade USA
Fair Trade USA is a leading certifier of Fair Trade products in North America, recognized for its rigorous certification programs aimed at safeguarding livelihoods and the environment while promoting resilient supply chains. Its Fair Trade Certified™ label signifies adherence to strict Fair Trade standards. Fair Trade USA aims to cultivate a responsible business model and promote conscious consumerism to combat poverty and foster sustainable development for farmers, workers, and their communities globally.
Contact: Fair Trade USA Public Relations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new CEO of Fair Trade USA?
Felipe Arango has been appointed as the new CEO of Fair Trade USA.
What is Felipe Arango's background?
Felipe Arango has over 25 years of experience in social capitalism and sustainable development, previously serving as COO and Interim CEO at FTUSA.
What goals does Arango have for his new role?
He aims to eliminate poverty and protect nature while working alongside farmers, workers, and fishers.
How does Fair Trade USA ensure sustainability?
Fair Trade USA employs rigorous certification programs that focus on environmental protection and improving the livelihoods of producers.
What did the Board members say about Arango's appointment?
Board members expressed high confidence in his leadership skills, vision for the organization, and potential to drive transformative growth.
