Chanel names Agathe Derain head of human rights

By

Dominique Muret

Published
Sep 17, 2020

As social and environmental issues play an increasingly important role in the management of luxury companies, iconic Parisian fashion house Chanel has appointed Agathe Derain to the newly created position of head of human rights.
 

The executive joined the company as responsible sourcing director for the Chanel fragrance and beauty division in 2018.

In her new role, effective September, she reports to Andrea d'Avack, who has served as the luxury giant's chief sustainability officer for the last five years. 

"The key objectives of this new role will be to reinforce the expertise of the house on human rights, provide insight on emerging issues and identify potential risks in our supply chains worldwide. She will also be in charge of structuring Chanel’s human rights due diligence program in our supply chains around the world," a Chanel spokesperson told FashionNetwork.com.
 
"This task is at the heart of our sustainability program and reflects our convictions on our role as a leader, and as a responsible company, in having a positive impact on society," continued the brand, which is also taking action concerning environmental issues through its "Chanel Mission 1.5°" programme. Launched last March, the programme aims to contribute to the fight against climate change. 

Having graduated from France's ESSEC Business School, Derain quickly specialised in social management issues. Her previous experience includes working as senior manager in charge of sustainable development and human rights at the French subsidiary of Deloitte. 

She is also a board member of Human Resources Without Borders, an NGO which seeks to improve working standards around the world.