A New Chapter of Leadership and Progress for the Dairy Working Group
18th March 2025
SAI Platform is pleased to announce the appointment of Sonja Frommenwiler, Global Head of Responsible Sourcing at Barry Callebaut Group as the new Co-Chair for the Dairy Working Group (Dairy WG), joining Darrin Monteiro, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Member Relations at California Dairies, who was appointed to the role last year.
Together, they will lead the group in advancing sustainable practices and driving impactful progress within the dairy sector. In a recent conversation with the new Co-Chairs, they shared their motivations, priorities, and vision for the future of the Dairy WG.
What inspired you to take on the role of Co-Chair for the DWG, and what unique perspectives do you bring to the role?
Sonja Frommenwiler: As an active member of the Dairy Working Group, I have seen the power of industry collaboration in driving meaningful change. I decided to apply for the Co-Chair role to help shape the dairy sector’s future and develop pragmatic, industry-focused tools that address real challenges. With experience in both procurement and sustainability, I bring a balanced perspective that bridges the needs of both buyers and sellers, ensuring that the Dairy WG remains inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of its members, while driving sustainable solutions for the industry’s future.
Darrin Monteiro: My decision was influenced by the encouragement of my peers and a desire to engage at a higher level within SAI Platform to drive meaningful progress. I believe that collaboration is key to overcoming the complex challenges we face, and this platform brings industry leaders together to make tangible advancements. My experience has given me a holistic view of both the challenges and opportunities in dairy, and I look forward to building on the great work already done while ensuring the dairy supply chain is more sustainable, resilient, and future-ready.
How will you ensure that new members stay actively engaged and see value in their membership?
Sonja Frommenwiler: Regular feedback is key, whether through surveys or discussions, to better understand member needs and expectations. In-person meetings and events foster deeper connections and as members we are aware of the need to actively contribute and take shared ownership and accountability.
Darrin Monteiro: I fully agree with Sonja. Understanding why new members are joining helps to tailor our engagement efforts. A webinar series could be a valuable tool for building expertise and supporting upskilling on key sustainability topics. However, face-to-face meetings remain vital for building that sense of camaraderie, connection and trust to work together on the common challenges.
Looking ahead to 2030, what are your key priorities for the DWG?
Sonja Frommenwiler: Ensuring that our industry solutions remain relevant to our members’ needs, particularly in streamlining reporting and developing the right tools to keep pace with evolving regulations. Another priority is maintaining healthy growth within the membership, while also diversifying it further.
Darrin Monteiro: Our growing Dairy WG is of course very positive for the sector and actively contributed to SAI Platform’s growth. However, growth brings complexity, and we need to manage resources effectively in a way that addresses the diversity of our members whilst ensuring that as we grow, we continue to focus on our mission and deliver tangible benefits to our members.
How can the Dairy WG ensure that the Sustainable Dairy Partnership (SDP) remains relevant and widely adopted?
Sonja Frommenwiler: The SDP’s relevance lies in its members’ active use. We must develop practical, user-friendly modules and foster cross-sector collaboration to maintain its impact and drive adoption.
Darrin Monteiro: Absolutely! As we further develop the SDP, it will be essential to strike a balance between decision-makers and technical experts to ensure effective implementation and meaningful outcomes.
As the Dairy WG progresses forward under the leadership of Darrin and Sonja, their shared commitment to collaboration, actionable solutions, and ongoing member engagement will ensure the continued success and growth of this working group.
SAI Platform, furthermore, extends its sincere thanks to Klaas Jan van Calker, Global Sustainable Sourcing Manager at Unilever, as he steps down as Co-Chair after several years of outstanding leadership. Klaas Jan’s long-standing dedication to advancing sustainable practices within the dairy sector has been instrumental in shaping the Dairy WG into the aligned and collaborative force it is today.
