“With supply chain optimization, we can significantly decrease CO₂”

Vanessa is director of sustainability management at 4flow. In this interview, she talks about her motivation for sustainability and how supply chain can serve as a lever for achieving environmental goals. 

Can you tell us a little about the journey that led you to 4flow?
I grew up in Germany near the Danish border. At university, I focused on sustainability for global value chains in Denmark, Germany and Mexico. After that, I spent five years at a Danish company working on different sustainability projects. I eventually started looking for something with a stronger focus on supply chain, which is what brought me to 4flow.

What first sparked your interest in sustainability?
After high school, I spent seven months in Asia. While visiting some clothing production facilities there I gained a deeper understanding of how Western consumption habits can impact working conditions and communities across the world. That experience motivated me to pursue a degree in sustainability. For my master's thesis, I analyzed value chains in the textile industry. And now at 4flow, I get to put that knowledge to work and directly contribute to sustainable supply chains.

What does your day-to-day look like as director of sustainability management?
I oversee all sustainability topics from our internal processes to customer projects. This includes calculating carbon footprints, managing sustainability reporting such as our EcoVadis ratings, and supporting social initiatives. What I enjoy most is seeing the bigger picture: understanding both our own environmental impact and the CO₂ reduction that supply chain optimization enables for our customers. With supply chain optimization, we can significantly decrease CO₂. It is my job to quantify this potential and make it visible to all.

What sustainability opportunities do you see in the supply chain industry?
Supply chain is a powerful lever for achieving environmental goals. When we optimize processes, we’re not only helping customers reduce costs; we’re also reducing CO₂ emissions. This dual benefit is what fascinates me most.

Sustainability initiatives become especially engaging when teams can clearly see the positive impact. A strong business case helps translate environmental benefits into tangible results, making it easier to create momentum, build alignment and bring everyone on board.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
I really enjoy the variety of responsibilities and our dynamic way of collaborating at 4flow. We're not afraid to take on new challenges, especially in sustainability, where there is so much potential to drive meaningful progress. What I value just as much are the people I work with. My colleagues bring expertise from different areas and genuinely support one another. Our strong team spirit makes our work not only efficient but also enjoyable. I value the international dimension of my role. Working across cultures comes naturally to me, thanks to my experience living and studying abroad. It taught me to appreciate different perspectives and adapt quickly, which are skills needed in an international environment.

You've lived in several different countries. Do you have a favorite travel destination?
I've left a piece of my heart in both Scandinavia and Mexico. What these regions have in common for me is their proximity to the sea. I am at ease by the water – it clears my head and helps me recharge. Since I now live just 45 minutes from the North Sea, I spend my weekends at the coast whenever I can.