Strategic sourcing in retail is far more than just finding the lowest price—it is a dynamic, continuous process that aligns purchasing decisions with long-term business goals. By thoroughly assessing needs, researching markets, and selecting suppliers based on a blend of price, quality, and sustainability, companies can reduce costs, enhance performance, and mitigate risks. Strategic sourcing also plays a vital role in sustainability efforts, ensuring that suppliers adhere to ethical practices and environmental standards. When executed effectively, it creates a resilient supply chain that supports innovation, drives competitive advantage, and delivers value to customers, suppliers, and the business itself.

Marianne Voss is a seasoned ESG and governance leader with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of law, finance, and sustainable business strategy. As Managing Director and Chief ESG Officer at Webster Equity Partners, she oversees the firm’s $9B ESG strategy and serves on the Investment Committee, where she has built a best-in-class ESG infrastructure, embedded regulatory compliance and risk analytics, and increased ESG-motivated allocations by 45%. Marianne brings a strong record of advising boards and executive teams across private equity, corporates, development finance, and nonprofits on sustainable value creation, enterprise risk, and stakeholder trust. A former founder of the ESG advisory firm Ethos Matters and a leader at adidas, Reebok, and Oxfam America, she has spearheaded initiatives in emerging issues in labor rights, climate risk, responsible sourcing, and post-M&A ESG integration. Marianne holds a JD from Boston University School of Law and a MALD from The Fletcher School, and is a trusted advisor known for aligning fiduciary oversight with long-term impact and value creation.