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Vidhi Aggarwal
Manager, Supply Chain Compliance ( Retail and Services Compliance) at Apple
Vidhi Aggarwal is a distinguished professional in the field of social compliance, labor and human rights, with a vast array of experience conducting ethics audits against international labor standards. With a primary focus on supply chain management across North America, South America, and Europe, Vidhi has dedicated her career to ensuring the promotion of ethical practices within factories around the globe. She has expertise in adhering to universally recognized codes of conduct such as the Electronics Industry Citizenship Coalition (EICC), Fair Labor Association (FLA), Social Accountability International (SA8000), and Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI). This extensive knowledge makes her a vital asset to any organization concerned with ethical labor practices and compliance.
In her professional journey, Vidhi has designed and implemented continuous improvement programs in factories, fostering a culture of integrity and ethical responsibility in the production processes. These programs are paramount in the current global landscape, where consumers and stakeholders demand transparency and ethical adherence from companies. By conducting comprehensive training sessions on effective auditing techniques, Vidhi equips organizations with the knowledge and tools required to uphold international codes of conduct and make informed decisions that resonate with ethical values.
The breadth of Vidhi's experience is truly remarkable, having worked on various field-based projects funded by international agencies across several countries including India, Cambodia, the USA, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, the Philippines, and China. This diverse exposure has provided her with invaluable insights into the complexities of global supply chains and the challenges faced by different countries in adhering to labor standards. Her ability to monitor and evaluate these projects has further solidified her reputation as a leader in promoting labor rights and social compliance and has contributed to the successful implementation of development initiatives.
Professional Background
Vidhi's career began at the prestigious World Wildlife Fund, where she served as the Assistant Program Manager for Business Development. This role laid the foundation for her understanding of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the intricate relationship between business practices and environmental impacts. Following her time at WWF, she transitioned to ASK, INDIA, as a Program Officer focused on corporate social accountability. In this capacity, she monitored corporate practices and encouraged adherence to ethical standards, further honing her skills in social compliance.
After her stint at ASK, Vidhi joined Verite, Inc., as a consultant where she provided expert advice on labor standards and compliance issues. Her rich experience culminated in her roles at Apple, where she initially served as Compliance Program Manager and then as Manager of Supply Chain Compliance for Retail and Services Compliance. In these positions, Vidhi was instrumental in ensuring Apple’s supply chains adhered to high ethical standards and labor rights protocols, making significant contributions to the company's global reputation for responsible sourcing practices. Furthermore, her experience as a Senior Auditor at the Certified Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC) underscores her comprehensive knowledge of labor audits across various sectors.
Education and Achievements
Vidhi’s educational background is both impressive and relevant to her professional endeavors. She holds a Diploma in Environmental Law from the Center for Environmental Law, which enriches her understanding of how legal frameworks intersect with labor rights and environmental protection. Her academic journey continued with a Master’s in Social Work from the Delhi School of Social Work, where she cultivated her passion for advocacy and social justice. Vidhi also earned a BA (HONS) in Sociology from Jesus and Mary College at the University of Delhi, providing her with a solid sociological perspective on labor issues, social practices, and cultural dynamics that influence workplace environments.
Vidhi’s commitment to continuous improvement and ethical practices is evident not only in her work but also in her desire to educate others. She regularly conducts trainings that empower organizations and personnel with the skills necessary for effective auditing against international codes of conduct. Her contributions to the field are not just limited to compliance and auditing; they encompass a holistic approach to labor ethics and sustainable practices rooted in social responsibility.
Vidhi Aggarwal stands out in her field, not only for her expertise in labor and ethics audits but also for her genuine passion for uplifting working conditions in factories around the world. Her multi-faceted experience allows her to take an informed, holistic approach to complex social compliance issues that businesses face today. Through her work, she has created pathways for positive change, making her a respected figure in the realms of business ethics and labor rights.
