SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
Executives from Sodexo and Proxima discuss the benefits of supplier diversity and why its a must-have for every procurement function
WRITTEN BY : GEORGIA WILSON
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erving the under-represented and fostering economic growth , supplier diversity is a strategic business practice encouraging the inclusion of suppliers from a diverse background . Such organisations include small and medium enterprises ( SMEs ), voluntary , community and social enterprises ( VCSEs ), ethnic minorityowned , women-owned and other underrepresented groups .
Reflecting on Sodexo ’ s own supplier strategy , Aoife Wycherley , Head of Food Procurement and Supply Chain explains : “ At Sodexo , we recognise the importance of supplier diversity in building a resilient and agile supply chain and bringing innovation to the market with speed .
“ We are committed to promoting equitable opportunities , valuing diversity and creating an inclusive working environment for all . Our strategy is built on the ethos of the power of positive conversations that take place within a psychologically safe culture . This enables us to increasingly harness the benefits which diversity and inclusion bring to our colleagues , clients , customers and communities .”
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