Supplier Diversity Rewired: A Fresh Perspective on Inclusive Procurement
Supplier diversity in the UK, as a business initiative has evolved dramatically since its inception in 2002. Over the past 22 years, what started as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda and a mere tick-box exercise has transitioned from a peripheral concern to a central component of the Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) strategy.
My journey in this field started in 2002 with doctoral research focusing on the legacy and history of the American model of supplier diversity, identifying best practices that could be adapted to the UK market to cultivate a more diverse and inclusive supply chain .
This research led to the incubation of MSDUK , the UK's first organisation dedicated to advocating for ethnic minority-owned businesses in 2006. Since then, and with the subsequent launch of ESDP in 2022, I've witnessed a dramatic shift in how both public and private sector companies approach, manage, and assess the overall impact of their supplier diversity initiatives.
With the support of prominent advocacy networks such as WeConnect , Social Enterprise UK , OutBritain , and Veterans Owned, the supplier diversity industry in the UK has matured considerably. However, significant challenges remain for both buying organisations and diverse businesses in achieving a greater collaborative impact.
NOW is the time to reset the industry's approach to supplier diversity. Over the next few weeks, under the theme "Supplier Diversity Rewired," I will be writing a series of fortnightly articles that will explore topics, issues, and strategies requiring new thinking:
Blog 1: Time to Rename Supplier Diversity for Broader Impact
Blog 2: Diverse Business Certification: Enabler or Barrier?
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Blog 3: Converting Opportunities to Contracts: A Real Game Changer!
Blog 4: A Diverse Business Database: Does It Really Make a Difference?
Blog 5: Redefining Success and Measuring Impact
Blog 6: Advocacy Organisations: Changing Dynamics and Roles
Blog 7: How to Be an Effective Supplier Diversity Leader
Blog 8: Going Global: A Step-by-Step Guide
These blogs aim to invite supply chain professionals, supplier diversity leaders, advocacy organisations, and diverse businesses to join the conversation by having a global vision with a local approach.?Together, we can collaborate to economically empower diverse business communities and aim for greater economic inclusion.
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7 个月Excellent
Incredible initiative! Resetting the industry's approach to supplier diversity is crucial for fostering economic inclusion and empowering diverse communities.?we believe in the transformative power of diversity and are excited to follow your 'Supplier Diversity Rewired' series. Let's collaborate and share innovative strategies to create a more inclusive and equitable future. Looking forward to engaging in this important conversation.