It Just Makes
Sense
Cingular Wireless works hard to make diversity an important part
of its supplier process. Cingular’s Supply Chain team develops and manages the
company’s Supplier Diversity Initiative, building strategic relationships with
diverse suppliers each year.
In 2006, the Initiative achieved two new
milestones:
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There was a 40 percent increase in
the number of “prime” contractors, companies with large supply contracts
that commit to ensuring a portion of their work is subcontracted to
diverse businesses.
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Stephen McGaw,
Senior Vice President, Supply Chain Management, says these important
achievements are a matter of good business sense. “Supplier Diversity is
dedicated to using proactive business strategies that mirror our diverse
customer base,” said McGaw.
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“Our goal is to increase awareness
of diversity among the companies that work with us. This isn’t only because
it’s the right thing to do. Companies who see that we care about diversity
will trust our company and remember us when they need wireless services.”
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Supply Chain Management has adopted
a series of strategies to make these achievements possible:
To guarantee equal access and
opportunities to diverse suppliers, Cingular invites at least two diverse
suppliers to participate in each request for proposal where applicable.
Supply Chain
Management employees hold leadership roles in organizations including: The
Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council; The Georgia Women’s Business
Council; The National Minority Supplier Development Council; The Women’s
Business Enterprises National Council; Astra Women’s Business Alliance; and
the Northwest Minority Business Council. Working with Cingular’s business
units, Supply Chain Management helps to enhance Cingular’s reputation and to
grow market share within these diverse communities.
