At DoubleHelix, our strength lies in the people who bring transparency and integrity to global supply chains. This week, we’re proud to introduce Vicky, a dedicated member of our due diligence team. Originally from Shan State, Myanmar, and now based in Bangkok, Vicky plays a key role in coordinating and delivering large-scale document verification projects across Asia.
Her story is one of resilience and professionalism — balancing a commitment to her family back home with an unwavering focus on building trustworthy, responsible sourcing systems. In this interview, Vicky shares her journey, her insights into supply chain verification, and why she believes now is the time for businesses to strengthen their traceability efforts.
Q: Where are you currently based, and how long have you been with DoubleHelix. If you feel comfortable, perhaps you could also share a little about being from Myanmar and now working from Bangkok?
I’m originally from Shan State, Myanmar, and I’m currently based in Bangkok, Thailand. I’ve been living here for about a year now. Transitioning from Myanmar to Thailand has been a significant change, both personally and professionally.
As you may know, Myanmar has faced considerable challenges in recent years. Since February 1, 2021, the socio-political and economic landscape has shifted dramatically. Liimited access to reliable information, a decline in international trade, and growing safety concerns around travel and mobility. These challenges made it increasingly difficult to work effectively, especially in roles that rely on connectivity, information flow, and international collaboration.
Relocating to Bangkok has provided greater stability and access to resources that are critical for my work such as reliable internet, broader exposure to global perspectives, and greater ease in pursuing professional opportunities. It’s been a valuable move that has allowed me to stay connected and continue growing in my career.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about what your work in due diligence and document verification involves?
My work in due diligence and document verification involves a combination of stakeholder engagement, information gathering, and data validation to support risk assessment and compliance. I regularly liaise with both internal experts and external advisors to collect and review a wide range of documentation such as legal, operational, and supply chain records required for due diligence assessments.
Once the relevant documents are collected, I analyze the information to ensure it meets the criteria set by our due diligence framework. This includes cross-referencing data, verifying the authenticity and accuracy of documents, and identifying any inconsistencies or potential red flags.
Throughout the process, I also maintain clear records and contribute to the continuous improvement of the due diligence system by identifying areas where workflows or criteria can be refined.
Q: What kind of supply chain projects have you been involved with recently?
Recently, I’ve been involved in a supply chain due diligence project for Kingfisher, focusing on their vendor network across Asia. My role centers around engaging with both internal stakeholders and subject matter experts to gather and verify supply chain data submitted by vendors.
This includes collecting detailed information on sourcing practices, operations, and documentation from suppliers, and ensuring that all inputs align with Kingfisher’s due diligence framework and compliance standards. The project not only strengthens transparency within the supply chain but also supports responsible sourcing and ethical business practices, which are important for global retailers like Kingfisher.
Q: What do you enjoy most about the work you do?
Coming from a teaching background, I genuinely enjoy the people-centric nature of my work, especially collaborating with my team and engaging with stakeholders. I find it deeply rewarding to share the knowledge and insights I’ve gained through various projects, and equally fulfilling to learn from others.
What motivates me most is the opportunity to contribute to the protection of our forests and natural environment. I’m passionate about raising awareness of the importance of traceability and reliable data collection. I hope to ensure that everyone from exporters and importers to government agencies understands the value of the due diligence process and the role it plays in sustainability.
Q: What do you see as the biggest challenges — or opportunities — when it comes to verifying supply chains in Asia?
One of the biggest challenges in Asia is building awareness and promoting accountability throughout all levels of the supply chain. Encouraging consistent responsibility across such a diverse region can be complex. However, this challenge also presents a major opportunity.
Asia plays a crucial role in global supply chains, and there is growing momentum around sustainability. By strengthening due diligence practices, we can better connect the Asian market with international standards.
When I first joined DoubleHelix, my focus was mainly on timber audits. But I’ve come to see that regulations like the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) go far beyond timber, covering a wide range of plant-based commodities. This presents a powerful opportunity to drive positive change across multiple industries, not just forestry.
Q: What does being part of this team mean to you, especially during difficult times?
Being part of this team has meant everything; especially during one of the most difficult times in my life. After the events of February 1, 2021, I felt deeply uncertain and overwhelmed. But my team stood by me.
They supported me not only professionally but also emotionally, constantly checking in, sharing resources, and encouraging me to keep learning, even when access to information was limited. That support helped me stay focused on my goals.
This team isn’t just a workplace. It’s a source of strength, resilience, and purpose. I’m grateful to be part of a group that truly looks out for one another.
Q: Any advice, reflections or current topics you’d like to share?
I’d like to encourage all stakeholders to start embedding traceability and accountability
into every stage of their supply chains NOW, not later.
Although the European Commission has proposed a 12-month delay in the implementation of the EUDR, this is not a time to slow down. On the contrary, it’s a valuable window to prepare, build strong systems, and collaborate with trusted partners and experts.
This is an opportunity to future-proof your business and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability efforts. Starting now gives us all a head start in building more transparent, ethical, and resilient supply chains.
Q: What helps you stay motivated and focused?
What keeps me motivated is the hope of contributing something meaningful to my country and our forests. Through my work in due diligence and auditing at DoubleHelix, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with international stakeholders, broaden my understanding of nature in Thailand, and deepen my expertise in sustainability.
I believe there’s no better time than now to act. I’m committed to continuously learning, growing, and sharing knowledge so I can make the greatest possible impact; both locally and globally.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Any hobbies or interests outside of work?
In my spare time, I enjoy walking through parks and forests. Being close to nature brings me a deep sense of peace. Living in Thailand has given me the chance to explore many beautiful, well-preserved natural spaces. I’m especially impressed by how well the country maintains its public parks and forests, even with the demands of a busy tourism industry. I really admire the care and respect they show for the natural environment.