According to Kris Oswold , supplier diversity is a business strategy that addresses the systemic biases resulting in fewer opportunities , limited access , and less capital available to diverse business owners . An executive with more than 33 years at UPS , Oswold – Vice President of Global Supplier Diversity – brings a wealth of experience to the role . “ For a corporation like UPS , supplier diversity means working to ensure thirdparty spend goes to companies whose owners reflect the diversity of the population ,” she says .

“ The data is clear and the experiences are real . Without intentional efforts to develop and include Black , Hispanic , Asian , Native American , women , veteran , LGBTQ +, and disabled-owned businesses , these companies do not have equitable access to contract opportunities with corporations .”

At UPS , contracts are awarded based on who brings the best value . “ Diverseowned businesses often just need the opportunity to show what they can do to a procurement group that ’ s open to new suppliers and understands the business value of diversity ,” Oswold says .

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