People of EDC - Jennifer LaFitte-C?té

Welcome to People of EDC, a series dedicated to celebrating the diverse experiences of our workforce by getting to know them on a more personal level. This week's article features Jennifer LaFitte-C?té, Senior Procurement Advisor and her work from home experience.

My journey at EDC began in 2017. Prior to joining as an Advisor in the procurement team, I was working at another crown corporation in a senior advisory role.   I am currently a Senior Procurement Advisor and Sourcing Partner on the Sourcing and Supplier Management team. In this role, I lead competitive procurement processes & provide strategic sourcing advice within EDC and FinDev Canada.

As a Mi’kmaw, busy mother, caregiver, and person living with a disability, workplace culture and flexibility are essential to me when choosing a place to work; EDC had both. I quickly noticed that it was an organization that not only embraces employees of various backgrounds, but also provided flexible work arrangements for various needs.

Being a part of sourcing and supplier management team over the last five years has allowed me to learn a lot about different areas of the business at EDC and meet many great colleagues along the way. One of our team’s most exciting initiatives over the last few years, led by my colleague Kelly Brown, has been the Supplier Diversity Strategy. Seeing the process of executing contracts with registered diverse suppliers, is motivating for our team to continue working hard at contributing to EDC’s diversity and inclusion goals.

Last year, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indigenous Employee Resource Group (ERG) was formed which gave me the opportunity to connect with other Indigenous colleagues and allies. During this time, as we pivoted to a virtual working environment, like many, I began to miss some of the social aspects of being in the office. I appreciate having an internal community where I’m given a safe space to discuss issues/topics pertaining to Indigenous peoples, as well as a place to use my voice, amplify other Indigenous voices and take action to support others. 

Last year, I had the opportunity to volunteer as a business mentor for Pow Wow Pitch, a business pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs. I jumped at the opportunity to be a mentor, supporting the entrepreneurs with their pitches. I am looking forward to participating on behalf of EDC again this year at the Ottawa Summer Solstice.  There are so many amazing Indigenous businesses across Turtle Island.

This month, as we commemorate National Indigenous History Month, I hope that people will take the time to recognize and reflect upon the rich history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada.