Leaving a positive impact is at the heart of everything we do at Stretchline. We’re committed to driving forward innovation, improving our environmental impact, and growing our business sustainably. A vision shared by our entire leadership team, which we’re proud to be extending.

John McClure has joined us as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the East Asia region. With knowledge and experience in raw materials, he has led sourcing for clothing manufacturers, including Marks and Spencer and Courtaulds Lingerie and is passionate about delivering excellence and driving forward ESG. To welcome him, we sat down and asked him a few questions about his background, sustainability and his vision for the future of Stretchline.

What does your job role entail?

I am responsible for the East Asia region of Stretchline, ensuring its continued success and growth. To accomplish this, I will work with our highly motivated and skilled teams, building on our excellent reputation for customer service and our passion for product development. In addition, I will be focusing on strengthening our existing sustainability credentials, exceeding the global targets we set for ourselves, and being socially responsible.

What do you bring to the team?

A clear understanding of what it takes to grow profitably while focusing on the right priorities. My goal is to further deepen our understanding of our customers’ needs by bringing my experience in textiles, clothing, and retail to Stretchline. I am a commercial thinker who enjoys the challenge of leading change with all stakeholders, customers, suppliers, colleagues, and shareholders.

How does your previous experience contribute to your new role?

I understand what clothing manufacturers require from raw material suppliers and how our performance impacts them. I have lived and worked in the Far East and managed offices in several countries, ensuring that autonomy and accountability are apparent while achieving wide-ranging corporate goals. I appreciate the importance of product development and innovation to retailers and brands. I am also committed to improving our sustainability and ESG credentials.

What are your top three priorities in your first year?

1. Deliver a clear China-to-China commercial strategy
2. Invest wisely, and quickly establish relevant capacity opportunities, so we are even closer to needlepoint for key customers
3. Ensure we are set up for profitable growth

What is your vision for Stretchline in the East Asia region?

As the leading narrow fabric and covered yarns supplier in East Asia, my goal is to make Stretchline the first choice for our customers.

We are delighted to welcome John on board. We look forward to seeing how his ideas and perspectives will help drive forward our success in the East Asia region.