Liz Hershfield named new Executive Director of Cotton Council International to boost global US cotton reach

Cotton Council International (CCI), the export promotion arm of the National Cotton Council of America, has appointed fashion and sustainability leader Liz Hershfield as its new Executive Director. She succeeds Bruce Atherley, who retired in March. Hershfield brings deep expertise in sustainability, sourcing, and supply chain strategy, along with experience working closely with US cotton. She is expected to lead CCI’s COTTON USA programs with a renewed global push focused on innovation, quality, and eco-conscious growth.

“There’s never been a more important time to champion US cotton,” said Hershfield. “Its story built on quality, trust, and sustainability is essential to the future of fashion.” NCC President & CEO Gary Adams noted, “Liz is well poised to enhance our programs and help U.S. cotton growers thrive in a complex global market.”

Previously, Hershfield held leadership roles at J Crew, Madewell, and Gap Inc, and founded sustainability consultancy Green-ish. She has received industry recognition including the Textile Exchange Ryan Young Climate+ Award for her work with regenerative cotton programs. At CCI, Hershfield will aim to expand demand for US cotton across the global textile chain, leveraging the strength of the COTTON USA brand and her proven leadership in sustainable fashion and sourcing.