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The APSCA Newsletter

In this issue:

Meet our New CEO: Ross Nova

An active industry leader, Ross has contributed to key topics such as supply chain traceability, audit and compliance cohesion, public reporting, sanctions, and industry standardization. His work with various multi-stakeholder associations, including, among others, the American Apparel and Footwear Association, Outdoor Industry Association, Retail Industry Leaders Association, and the U.S. Department of State, underscores his commitment to collaboration and advancing industry standards.

“APSCA’s work and dedication to professionalizing social compliance auditing hasn’t just created a new level of competency for the industry, it has made a real difference in people’s lives,” Ross shared. “I’m excited to get to work!”

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Industry Events

We are excited to invite you to APSCA’s Annual Meeting of Members and Stakeholders, which will be held from November 19-21, 2024, at the Equatorial Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

This year’s theme, “Navigating the Future of Social Compliance: Pioneering Solutions & Best Practices Together” promises to provide valuable insights into the current and future landscape of our profession.

Can’t Make it to Vietnam? You have the option to attend the event in person or virtually! Whether you’re joining us on-site or participating online, you’ll have full access to all panels!

Q1 & Q2 Metrics Snapshot

For additional Professional Conduct YTD Metrics, click here.

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Emerging Trends in Ethics Investigations

APSCA’s recent ethics investigations have brought several critical issues to the forefront. Emerging trends reflect serious issues that have resulted in Membership Revocations.

⚠️ Breach of Confidentiality (1 case – Membership Revocation*)

Confidentiality Breaches — whether in public forums or through improper document retention — are severe violations that will not be tolerated. Sharing, posting, or mishandling sensitive audit information is a direct breach of APSCA’s Code of Conduct and carries serious consequences.

APSCA Members must enforce strict data protection, controlled access to sensitive information, and regular confidentiality training.  Always refer to your Firm’s Code, Policies and Procedures to meet data protection requirements.

⚠️ Questionable Exam Access Practices (3 cases – Membership Revocations*)

The integrity of APSCA’s exam process is paramount. Any attempt to gain unauthorized access or share credentials is a serious violation of APSCA policies. Such behavior is met with disciplinary action, up to and including membership revocation.

Credentials must never be shared. Access the exam system only at authorized times, under the supervision of designated personnel. Never share your credentials for the APSCA data system or any APSCA platforms. Violations will result in serious penalties.

Contact APSCA’s Professional Conduct Team on ethics@theapsca.org for more information or to report concerns of ethical misconduct.

*Members may appeal Disciplinary Board findings within 30 days of sanction.

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Boosting Exam Success

Targeted Support for Growth in Key Regions

To kick off this effort, we will launch pilot webinars in October for Japan and Italy. These sessions will be pre-recorded and presented in the local language to ensure they are accessible and clear for all participants. Additionally, live chat sessions will follow each webinar, featuring translators to help address specific questions and concerns in real time.

These initiatives are part of our commitment to providing tailored support that enhances exam outcomes in identified regions. Detailed information about these pilot webinars will be shared with all Members and Member Firms operating in these areas soon.

Thank you for your continued dedication to excellence in professional standards!

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New CPD Policy Set to Launch on September 16th

We are pleased to share that significant enhancements have been made to our Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program, aimed at providing even stronger support for our CSCA Members.

These improvements are designed to ensure that all Auditors maintain the functional skills and foundational knowledge essential to elevating the professionalism of the social compliance auditing industry.

The updated CPD program features a more streamlined and user-friendly format, offering clear guidance to help Members navigate their professional development requirements. Additionally, we have implemented new tools to provide better visibility and tracking of progress, supporting a more personalized approach to CPD goals.

We remain committed to supporting our Members and Member Firms with the resources and guidance needed to uphold the highest standards in social compliance auditing.

Further details will be shared soon.

Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting enhancements!

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In Memoriam: Fred Waelter

Fred served on APSCA’s board from 2016 to 2019, where his leadership and vision were crucial in advancing our mission. He was known for his kindness, integrity, and passion for social justice, making a lasting impact on the social compliance auditing community.

As we mourn the loss of a dear colleague, we also celebrate Fred’s incredible legacy.  He made many contributions and left an indelible mark on our field, touching a lot of lives throughout his own.  We will miss Fred’s smile, which was as contagious as his passion.  Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Fred’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

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🎙️ New Episode of the APSCA Podcast

In this episode of the APSCA Podcast, Effie Marinos, APSCA’s highly respected Ethics Advisor, draws on over 35 years of industry experience to offer valuable insights. She explores the challenges audit firms encounter, emphasizes the critical importance of professional integrity, and highlights how APSCA supports and guides auditors in their vital work.

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