Unlock the Value of Wool

André Herbst is the Sustainability Manager at Südwolle Group GmbH, based in Schwaig, Bavaria. With a strong background in textile innovation, André plays a key role in driving the company’s environmental strategy, particularly within the Südwebs division. His work focuses on advancing environmental KPI's and integrating sustainability into fiber development and production processes. André is a frequent contributor to industry dialogues, including events like Natural Fibre Connect and Performance Days, where he shares insights on wool innovation and circularity in the textile value chain.

I am a materials professional with nearly 18 years of experience in the Outdoor industry. My career spans a wide range of roles at renowned companies such as Toray International, Jack Wolfskin and ORTOVOX. My journey has been shaped by a deep passion for functional and performance-driven materials that elevate both product and user experience.

In my current role as Head of Material at ORTOVOX I am responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of the materials department and play a key role in advancing sustainable textiles and innovative material solutions for Softgoods (Apparel and Backpacks).  My career is marked by deep expertise in material development, sustainability, quality management, and product innovation.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for me—it’s a guiding principle woven into every decision I make. My mission is to make a meaningful impact with the materials’ strategies that we pursue in collaboration with our partners along the supply chain as well as leading initiatives and industry stakeholders.

Dalena has more than 20 years’ experience in clothing design, textile manufacturing, merchandising and product sourcing for fashion retail. She served as a board member of a clothing factory for 6 years, before joining the wool industry in 2008. She managed brand developments for South African Merino wool products, including styling, wool textile innovation and marketing projects with retail partners. Dalena was appointed as the Secretary General of the International Wool Textile Organisation, based in Brussels, Belgium, in June 2016. IWTO is the recognized global authority for standards in the wool industry and has been representing the interests of the wool textile trade since 1930. IWTO Members represent 23 countries and all stages of the wool pipeline. IWTO is a registered AISBL (non-profit).

Francesco Magri graduated from Bocconi University in 2000 with a degree in International Business Strategy and Management and soon entered the fashion industry, starting as Brand Manager at Diesel (2001–2005) and later serving as Brand Director at Miss Sixty Group (2005–2012). In 2012, Francesco joined The Woolmark Company as Managing Director for Italy and Iberia. Since 2019, he has expanded this role to Regional Manager for Central and Eastern Europe, overseeing operations across Italy, Iberia, the AGS countries, Northern and Eastern Europe, and Turkey. With over two decades of experience in brand and textile innovation, Francesco brings a deep understanding of performance, sustainability, and market dynamics to the global wool industry.