PASSION WITH PURPOSE IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY
Supplier diversity leaders bring passion and intention to their work.
The auto industry has long been known as an innovator and change leader, including its work in supplier diversity. During its current transformative phase and the introduction of new product lines and facilities, supplier diversity leaders are challenged to keep pace.
“With the production of smart cars and smart cities, supplier diversity leaders are being intentional about bringing underrepresented small businesses along the journey,” says Ford Motor Company Senior Manager of Supplier Diversity Travis Spencer.
Diversity Professional asked supplier diversity leaders in the automotive industry what drives them to do their work and why supplier diversity matters to their businesses. They also shared initiatives they’re currently leading to improve relationships with diverse suppliers.
“I do this work [in supplier diversity] because it’s essential to the U.S. economy and aligns with the goals of Volkswagen Group. As an international brand, we need a more inclusive supply chain, and I’m proud to help connect underutilized vendors to these opportunities. I’ve implemented a requirement for each buyer to meet with a specific number of new diverse suppliers each year. This requirement is tied to their annual goals and tracked through a survey system. The aim is to boost engagement with diverse companies as engagement fosters relationships and opportunities.”
Shaquanta Locke, Supplier Equity and Inclusion Manager Volkswagen Group of America
“Three years ago, I made the conscious decision to lead supplier diversity at Toyota because it’s something I truly care about. Over the years, I’ve witnessed the remarkable impact that a diverse supplier base can have. I’ve seen how diversity sparks innovative ideas, especially as we work on developing next-generation vehicles. Moreover, when we include diverse suppliers, it enhances our competitiveness in all areas of our business. The most important aspect of supplier diversity is the opportunities it creates. Everyone, regardless of their background, has a chance to contribute and succeed. A standout initiative is the Driving Impact Business Module, where Toyota collaborates with one of our Tier I interior suppliers. The module has two primary goals: 1) to engage Tier I suppliers in developing robust supplier diversity strategies and 2) prepare diverse suppliers to do business with large corporations. This initiative underscores our company’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and competitive supply chain and has resulted in the development of over 100 Tier 1 suppliers and diverse suppliers.”
Matt Greene, Senior Manager, Supplier Diversity Toyota
“My father was a small business owner, and I watched him work with his customers to deliver his services. My passion for supplier diversity started with him. I believe that everyone benefits when all businesses are afforded an opportunity to compete in the marketplace. It creates a trickle-down effect to the communities where we live and work, which helps promote economic prosperity. Program development and mentoring are key elements of Nissan’s Supplier Diversity. Our program’s purpose is to identify improvement activities and provide an appropriate framework for evaluating and improving the performance of diverse suppliers.”
Marcella McCullough, Senior Manager, DEI Supplier Diversity Nissan Group of Americas
“It’s important for me to lend my areas of expertise in law and business to entrepreneurs who would not otherwise have access to experienced advisors. Being in the supplier diversity industry has exposed me to courageous and pioneering leaders who deserve corporate advocates and support to scale and become key partners in their industries. I meet many young entrepreneurs who are visionaries and inventors, and I enjoy supporting their efforts! At Cummins, Inc., we’re building a pipeline of companies that have products and services with a STEAM foundation, and we’re preparing them to work with Fortune 500 companies.”
Helena E. Hutton, Senior Director, Center of Excellence for Environmental Sustainability and Supplier Diversity Cummins, Inc.
“I’m passionate and committed to giving back to the community and using my skills, knowledge, network and resources to make a positive impact. I intentionally seek to provide opportunities to drive an inclusive culture throughout Stellantis’ supply base. It is only through this commitment that our company can build the best products to support the needs of our diverse customers. One notable initiative is the Supplier Diversity Matchmaker event, which has generated more than $4 billion in new business opportunities for diverse suppliers since its inception in 1999. The Matchmaker program offers diverse-owned companies the opportunity to host exhibit spaces, network and learn about Stellantis’ supplier diversity development initiatives, including participating in matchmaking meetings with key buyers and decision-makers.”
Bruno Olvera, Director, Diversity Supplier Development Stellantis
“My work in supplier diversity is driven by a passion for advocacy, especially for smaller businesses, which often face challenges in accessing larger opportunities. I believe in leveling the playing field, helping these small businesses get a seat at the table and providing them with the chance to grow so they can support not just their own families, but their communities as well. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how empowering small businesses can lead to lasting, positive change for Honda’s business and the communities where we live and work. One initiative I’m leading involves leveraging aggregated survey data to guide strategic business decisions, particularly in supporting diverse organizations. By analyzing the data, we can identify key areas for growth and engagement. To complement these insights, we host targeted “Lunch and Learn” sessions and facilitate corporate conversations through one-on-one meetings. These efforts strengthen partnerships and ensure we’re addressing the unique needs and challenges of diverse suppliers while creating tangible opportunities for their growth.”
Daryl Watson, Procurement Diversity Manager Honda Development and Manufacturing of America
“I’m driven by a commitment to equity and the belief that different perspectives fuel innovation and a more inclusive marketplace. It’s fulfilling to know that my work can help foster a more equitable environment where everyone has a chance to succeed and strengthen the communities we live in. I’m leading the General Motors Supplier Inclusion Board, which consists of Tier 1 suppliers and GM employees dedicated to supporting diverse suppliers. The board provides guidance on navigating procurement processes, best practices and capacity building. By facilitating knowledge sharing and fostering connections, we aim to empower diverse suppliers to thrive and establish lasting relationships with our organization. The Supplier Inclusion Board hosts workshops focused on the procurement processes and networking opportunities to further strengthen these connections and create a supportive community.”
Hass Beydoun, Supplier Diversity Manager General Motors
“As a native Detroiter from a low-income household, I know first-hand the inequities caused by the racial wealth gap in America. My leadership role in Supplier Diversity not only provides me with the ability to showcase my skills, grow my network and strengthen my business acumen, but also allowed me to lead initiatives that drive real change in the community. Doing this work is truly where my passion meets its purpose! An initiative that I’m extremely excited about is the next phase of the Collaborative Growth Initiative led by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC). A study conducted by MMSDC reported that at the current rate of MBE growth, it would take 333 years before economic equity occurred. Ford has partnered with MMSDC to reduce that timeline and help create MBEs in areas where they have low penetration. Given the emphasis on connectivity and electronics in vehicles, electronics is one area we’re targeting to create MBE penetration.”
Travis Spencer, Senior Manager, Supplier Relations Ford Motor Company
