Part of a series:
Inside the Specialist Departments
Driving progress through responsible and transparent supply chains
A conversation with Beatrice Kristoffersen, Group CSR Manager at Nilörn.
Inside the Specialist Departments is our series spotlighting the people behind the labels — the experts advancing innovation, sustainability and compliance across Nilörn.
In this edition, we speak with Beatrice, Group CSR Manager, about her role within Nilörn’s global sustainability function, strengthening supply chain transparency, and navigating an industry increasingly shaped by new legislation, digitalisation and rising expectations for traceability.
From textile engineering to global CSR leadership
Beatrice’s journey with Nilörn began during her studies at the University of Borås, where she specialised in textile engineering. “My thesis was done together with Nilörn, developing the Tencel labels,” she explains. A year later, in November 2020, she officially joined the company.
After starting at the Borås office, Beatrice relocated to Nilörn’s sourcing office in Hong Kong — a move reflecting both her international outlook and Nilörn’s global presence. “Nilörn is a very global company, present in many countries,” she says. “I enjoy working with different cultures and people from around the world. The company’s strong focus on CSR and sustainability also aligns closely with my own values.”
Since joining, her role has evolved from CSR Coordinator to CSR Specialist, and today she leads the group function as Group CSR Manager.
Building a global sustainability function
When Beatrice started, the sustainability team consisted of just two people. Today, it has grown to seven specialists focusing on different areas within CSR, Compliance and sustainability.
Her role centres on managing the social and environmental aspects of Nilörn’s supply chain – combining global collaboration, supplier engagement and data management
– in platforms such as SEDEX, Worldly, Retraced and Qarma.
“My days often involve responding to client requests, visiting suppliers and Nilörn offices, and leading initiatives around risk mitigation, supplier education and webinars,” Beatrice explains.
In recent years, the team has also expanded its work into product and material tracing, further strengthening transparency across the supply chain.
Close collaboration across departments is key. “We work with all departments across Nilörn because sustainability is integrated into every process,” Beatrice says.
“Good collaboration is when everyone understands their role in creating a responsible supply chain.”
Navigating change in a rapidly evolving industry
The labelling and packaging industry is constantly developing – bringing new challenges and opportunities. Nilörn’s continued international expansion adds another layer of complexity.
Establishing operations in new countries requires adapting processes, managing risks and ensuring compliance – but the results are rewarding. “Once everything is set up and running, it’s incredibly satisfying.”
At the same time, the regulatory landscape is shifting rapidly. The European Green Deal and upcoming legislation are reshaping expectations across the industry. “The implementation of the Green Deal will mean significant changes for the work we do.”
To meet these demands, Nilörn’s CSR & Sustainability team has modernised its data management. What was once handled manually in Excel is now managed through digital platforms, enabling more efficient analysis, improved transparency and readiness for future reporting requirements.
Rather than viewing regulation as an obstacle, Beatrice sees opportunity:
“New legislation will push the entire supply chain to improve – leading to better environmental outcomes and improved working conditions.”
“It’s a privilege to be part of a company that values progress, collaboration and responsibility – and to help drive that forward throughout our supply chain.”
Deepening transparency through traceability
One of Beatrice’s key focus areas is strengthening product and material traceability through the Retraced platform.
“We’re working to map our supply chain more deeply, tracing where our raw materials originate,” she explains. “It gives us valuable insight and strengthens our ability to ensure materials are sourced responsibly.”
This work supports Nilörn’s broader goals around transparency, compliance and circularity — providing both clients and internal teams with the clarity needed to make informed, sustainable decisions.
Looking ahead, Beatrice expects the scope of CSR and sustainability to continue expanding. “The field is growing every year,” she says. “I believe our team will continue to develop, adding more specialists to meet new challenges and opportunities.”
This article is part of our series spotlighting Nilörn’s specialist departments. Join us next time as we highlight our expertise within our RIS (Retail Information Service) Department.