In an exclusive interview moderated by BirchStreet’s SVP of Solutions Consulting, Kim Huff, the conversation quickly honed in on the pivotal role played by Alex Shockley, the Director of Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability at Hilton Supply Management (HSM). With a purchasing power exceeding 12 billion dollars and a global reach supporting 16,000 properties, HSM is at the forefront of shaping sustainable procurement practices within the hospitality industry.
The primary focus remains on driving positive impact, which involves reducing carbon emissions, advancing human rights, and transitioning to more sustainable products. Alex outlined three fundamental pillars:
- Responsibility
- Sustainability
- Inclusivity
By prioritizing due diligence, environmental stewardship, and equitable sourcing practices, the goal is to catalyze positive changes throughout the supply chain.
There’s a critical need for compliance and diversity in supplier spending, Alex underscored the importance of leveraging tools like BirchStreet to facilitate seamless data exchange and collaboration. He stressed the significance of adopting an equitable approach to supplier engagement, ensuring that smaller businesses and diverse suppliers have the opportunity to thrive.
This may seem like a no brainer, but you’d be surprised how many organizations do not establish transparent terms in contracts and implementing processes for regular check-ins and audits. Alex highlighted the role of platforms in evaluating suppliers’ ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance, offering a structured framework for collaboration and improvement.
By leveraging a global network and expertise, organizations can ensure consistent adherence to compliance standards across various markets. Recognizing the diversity of regulations across regions, Alex stressed the importance of maintaining a global perspective and customizing solutions to meet specific regulatory requirements and cultural nuances.
The main overarching goal: Empowering hospitality organizations to navigate the complex terrain of sustainability and regulatory compliance with confidence and efficiency. By embracing responsible sourcing practices and fostering collaboration, the hospitality industry can spearhead meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future.
To hear more insights into HSM sustainability best practices and how they partner with BirchStreet, listen to the webinar.