University of Michigan Health-West is reinforcing its commitment to support diversity, equity and inclusion in West Michigan by launching a new portal to track and report progress in vendor, contractor and supplier diversity.
“Inclusion is one of our core values and it’s only appropriate to take the same approach when choosing suppliers,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, UM Health-West president and CEO. “We are dedicated to upholding this principle and ensuring that our suppliers align with our commitment.”
The program, which is designed to encourage an inclusive approach to procurement, helps UM Health-West better understand who it partners with for business.
To qualify as a diverse supplier, a business must be 51% or more owned, controlled, and operated by: people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, persons with disabilities, persons who are socially and economically disadvantaged, U.S. military veterans, or women.
The program is part of UM Health-West’s DEI strategic plan, designed to reinforce its work, performance and role in the community, strengthening the organization as a better employer.
“Having a diverse supplier base makes economic sense. It encourages competition to drive costs down and quality up, while also adding incentives for supply chain agility,” said Kris Kurtz, UM Health-West chief operations and finance officer.
All suppliers will be able to add their credentials to a database so UM Health-West can track its diversity progress and better understand the full scope of who UM Health-West does business with. While encouraged, certification as a diverse supplier is not required and does not guarantee vendor selection.
“We know that having a diverse supplier base is essential to achieving our DEI goals, and we are committed to supporting underrepresented groups and providing equal opportunities for all,” concluded Dr. Hahn.
For additional information, please visit the UM Health-West supplier portal.
