We recently spoke with Vishal Samthier, a Verification Specialist working across Asian supply chains at DoubleHelix, to learn more about his role and the work involved in ensuring supply chains are transparent, well-documented and compliant. In this interview, Vishal shares insights into the verification process, the challenges he encounters when reviewing supply chain documentation, and how his work supports stronger due diligence across global markets.
Q: Where are you currently based, and how long have you been with DoubleHelix?
I am currently based in Myanmar, and I have been with DoubleHelix for almost seven years now.
Q: As a Verification Specialist for Asia, what does your role involve?
My role focuses on reviewing and managing supply chain documentation as part of the verification process. A key part of my work involves organising and securely storing all received supply chain documents within the DoubleHelix cloud storage system. I also review and analyse supply chain documentation in detail to check that it is accurate, complete and compliant with the relevant requirements. Another key responsibility is preparing and generating dockets and certificates, ensuring they are completed accurately and delivered to clients in a timely manner. In addition, I communicate and coordinate with clients across different regions in Asia.
Q: What does the verification process typically look like from your perspective?
Reviewing supply chain documents often feels like reading a story. The interesting part, though, is that I read the story in reverse, starting with the supplier or vendor and tracing the information upstream through the supply chain until I reach the original source. I genuinely enjoy this process because it allows me to carefully examine the entire supply chain, identify missing links and detect potential gaps or inconsistencies. This analytical approach helps ensure that the supply chain is transparent, well-documented and compliant.
Q: What are some of the key risks or issues you commonly assess in supply chains?
There are several issues that commonly arise when reviewing supply chain documentation. One of the most frequent challenges is missing links in the supply chain, where parts of the documentation do not clearly connect suppliers, intermediaries and the original source of the product. Another issue is low-quality or incomplete documents, which can make it difficult to verify the accuracy of the information provided. Language barriers can also present challenges, particularly when documents originate from different countries and need to be interpreted consistently. Delays in follow-ups or resubmissions can also slow down the verification process, especially when additional documentation is required to fill gaps in the supply chain records.
Q: What skills or qualities do you think are most important in verification work?
I would say two of the most important qualities in verification work are attention to detail and analytical thinking.
Q: How does your work help strengthen supply chain transparency and compliance?
In my role as a verification expert, I play a crucial part in enhancing supply chain transparency and compliance. When I conduct thorough checks of supply chain documents, I often identify missing links, incomplete documentation or gaps in information. By bringing these issues to the attention of our clients, we help them gain a clearer picture of their supply chain’s integrity. This not only raises their awareness of potential risks but also allows them to proactively address gaps, ensuring compliance with regulatory and ethical standards. Ultimately, this collaborative process strengthens both the transparency and the resilience of their supply chains.
Q: What developments or trends are you currently seeing across Asian supply chains?
Right now, a few major trends are shaping Asian supply chains. Firstly, many companies are moving from a sole focus on China to a “China + one” approach, expanding to countries like Vietnam and Malaysia. Secondly, regulatory complexity is rising, with stricter tariff and documentation rules. Third, supply chains are diversifying, with countries like Vietnam, Malaysia and India becoming key hubs, especially for AI hardware. AI is also boosting data transparency, sustainability and real-time risk monitoring across the supply chain.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about your role?
What I find most rewarding in my role as a document verifier is that it really sharpens my attention to detail. It pushes me to be more observant and analytical. I don’t just gather data, I connect the dots between different pieces of information. This deeper, strategic thinking helps me uncover risks, improve processes and ultimately contribute to smarter, more effective supply chain strategies, so it really feels meaningful to me.
Q: What motivates you in a role that requires attention to detail and analytical thinking?
What motivates me most is the analytical nature of the work. I enjoy examining complex supply chain information, identifying patterns and ensuring that every detail is accurate and compliant. The challenge of connecting different pieces of information and uncovering potential risks keeps the work engaging and meaningful for me.
Q: When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not working, I enjoy learning new things, especially topics related to technology and science. I also like relaxing at home and spending time with friends.