BRIAN SHORTER
TITLE : HEAD OF THE GOLD SUPPLIER PROGRAM
Mobilising Key Suppliers “ I created the Gold Supplier Program in 2017 . My vision for the programme then , as now , was that it be differentiated from traditional ‘ preferred supplier ’ programs and create real value for JPMorgan Chase , our Gold Suppliers , and the communities we serve . This is a highly influential group of companies with combined revenues of over US $ 2 trillion , wielding very significant spending power . It ’ s in this context that we have developed our supplier diversity initiative over the last year , and have the potential , collectively , to make very material improvements for diverse suppliers and diverse supply markets .
“ My hope for the future is simple : I want supplier diversity to become businessas-usual for our Gold Suppliers , with supplier diversity programs , and diverse suppliers , that are fully incorporated to the Golds ’ sourcing , procurement , and vendor management practices .
“ The most encouraging sign that my hope may be achieved , though , are the reasons why Gold Suppliers are participating . It ’ s not just because JPMorgan Chase asked them to get involved . Gold Suppliers tell us that they view supplier diversity as a way to invest in and improve the communities they serve - where their employees and customers live and work . In short , it ’ s good business ."
NOEL WASHINGTON
TITLE : VP OF SOURCING , BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & SUPPLIER MENTORING PROGRAM LEAD
Mentoring Suppliers “ I partner existing suppliers that support the organisation , but do not currently have a supplier diversity program ( mentees ), with other external strategic suppliers of JPMorgan Chase that have well-established supplier diversity programs ( mentors ).
“ Mentees and mentors will work together over the next 18-24 months to design and implement a sustainable supplier diversity programme . We hope the organisations we are mentoring will create a long-term sustainable diversity department that will in turn create more opportunities for diverse-owned businesses . Our goal is to have opportunities translate into awarded business , and increased revenues for diverse companies ; and access to a broader selection of innovative businesses for our Gold Suppliers .
“ A majority of the mentees have secured leadership buy-in to hire a Head of Supplier Diversity or assign a dedicated resource to drive the effort . Many of the companies have recognised the importance of inclusion of diverse suppliers and identified opportunities to shift how they procure products and services to drive awareness to the utilisation of the diverse business community .”
200 January 2022