Edwin Keh

Edwin Keh is a recognized expert in supply chain management and sustainable innovation within the textile and apparel industries. Keh serves as CEO of the public research institute Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA), an organization focused on research, development, and technology transfer in the fashion and textile sectors, with an emphasis on sustainable fashion solutions.

Keh’s interest in logistics and supply chain operations began with his early work in refugee camps for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, where he served as an editor and resettlement lobbyist. He later held leadership roles in global retail and sourcing, including Managing Director positions at Payless Shoesource International, Donna Karan International, and Country Road Australia. Keh also served as senior vice president and chief operating officer of Wal-Mart Global Procurement, overseeing sourcing for multiple multinational brands over more than two decades.

At HKRITA, Keh has guided the institute in developing sustainable fashion technologies and circular economy solutions. Notable projects include the H&M Foundation-backed "Green Machine," which enables large-scale separation of polyester-cotton blends, the development of hydroponically grown long-staple cotton, a cellulosic-based superabsorbent polymer for soil moisture retention, and the use of acoustic waves to capture microfibers in water. HKRITA’s "Garment to Garment" recycling system demonstrates closed-loop recycling of post-consumer garments without water or chemicals. The institute has received more than 100 awards and participated in numerous innovation and design competitions.

Keh’s work has been recognized with honors such as the Medal of Honor from the HKSAR Government for research contributions during the pandemic, inclusion in Asia's Most Influential by Tatler, recognition as one of the Top 50 Innovative Retail Leaders by Inside Retail Hong Kong, and listing on Debrett’s Hong Kong 100 for influence in technology and digital sectors. He is also a recipient of the Production and Operations Management Society’s Excellence in Production and Operations Management Practice Award.

In addition to his role at HKRITA, Keh is on faculty at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, where he teaches supply chain operations. He co-founded the Consortium for Operational Excellence in Greater China, sponsored by the Wharton School and Tsinghua University. Keh serves on advisory boards for social enterprises, research organizations, and NGOs, and has participated on the Expert Panel of H&M Foundation’s Global Change Award. His experience spans commerce, technology, and social impact, positioning him as a leading voice in global supply chain management and sustainable industry transformation.