Board strategies integrating social responsibility in supply chains

In 2025, boards face mounting geopolitical challenges—escalating tariffs, volatile trade, and evolving regulations. Amid this instability, integrating social responsibility into supply chains has become a strategic way to enhance resilience and long-term value.

By Purvee Kondal – Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence

Boards can guide leadership to strengthen social responsibility in procurement through these five strategies:

1. Advance ethical sourcing standards
2. Integrate social responsibility into procurement strategy
3. Strengthen supplier accountability and transparency
4. Leverage board oversight to embed responsible practices throughout the supply chain
5. Tie leadership performance to social responsibility outcomes

By aligning the ‘S’ in ESG with corporate governance, boards can elevate supply chain strategy from risk management to a source of trust and long-term value.