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Diversity at MDI Group
As more and more businesses recognize the value of a diverse supplier base, supplier diversity initiatives are no longer considered “feel-good” programs. They are about consumer buying power. They are about increasing market share. They make good business sense.
As a certified woman-owned business and a recognized thought leader in supplier diversity, MDI Group helps clients achieve a more inclusive workforce and meet their diversity spend objectives.
Diversity Forums
Since 2002, MDI Group has facilitated Supplier Diversity Forums for diversity and procurement leaders in our local communities. These senior managers attend the forum to brainstorm new ideas and to discuss practical solutions to supplier diversity issues with peers in other large corporations. Some of the questions covered so far have been:
- How can organizations improve the ability of diversity and procurement organizations to support supplier diversity?
- How should a diversity department operate to have the desired impact on the entire organization?
- What actions should be taken to demonstrate to the executive team the actual ROI of diversity initiatives?
- What can be done to get the entire organization involved and excited about the diverse cultures of its employees?
- How have your diversity strategies impacted your business strategies?
- How does an organization effectively measure and track their supplier diversity initiatives?
Diversity Vendor Participation Plan
MDI Group "walks the talk" when it comes to supplier diversity. Our internal Diversity Vendor Participation Plan (DVPP) increases usage of diversity suppliers. This plan consists of several components, including:
- Creating opportunities for diversity-certified businesses by engaging these firms as third-party suppliers and recommending them to our clients and partners
- Achieving 30% diversity spend on subcontracting
- Reporting performance to clients
- Mentoring diversity-owned firms
Active Participation in Diversity Organizations
Our dedication to contributing to the growth of supplier diversity takes many forms. We are involved in a variety of organizations that support and promote supplier diversity.
- MDI Group has taken an active role at Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) as a Forum member. We are currently working with corporations and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) firms to develop programs that enhance the relationship between WBE firms and corporate supply chains.
- As a member of WBENC’s Strategic Sourcing Committee, MDI Group has helped create the WBE Roadmap for Success.
- MDI is also an active member of Women in Technology (WIT). WIT is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to offering women in all levels of the technology industry a wide range of professional development and networking opportunities.
Mentoring
MDI Group believes that it is incumbent on us to give back to the business community through mentoring. Not only have we participated in the Georgia Governor's Mentor/Protégé Program, but MDI Group has also instituted our own mentoring program internally. Mentoring is most effective when it is provided by organizations with experiences that match the protégé's experience. As a successful woman-owned firm, MDI Group leaders have the background and experience to assist other growing, diversity-owned businesses. The goals of MDI Group's program are to:
- Support our clients' supplier diversity initiatives
- Help emerging businesses better deliver products/services within local economies
- Identify IT/Finance & Accounting diversity suppliers to provide products/services
- Broaden the experience and skills of MDI Group leadership
To learn more about MDI Group’s mentoring program, view our case study or to engage a recognized diversity supplier thought leader, contact us today.
