Bristol-Myers Squibb Honored for Supplier Diversity

When a business incorporates global diversity and inclusion into its philosophy, it creates good will among its employees and customers. But diversity and inclusion is also a business imperative at Bristol-Myers Squibb, recognizing that companies focusing on those ideals perform better overall. 

Bristol-Myers Squibb was just honored as a Top 30 Best-of-the-Best company by the National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC) and the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).

“By recognizing these industry leaders and the policymakers who collaborate with them as the Best-of-the-Best, we are creating a better future for all diverse communities in business,” said Justin Nelson, NGLCC co-founder and president. “Together we reaffirm our common, ongoing mission to improve business inclusion among Fortune 500 corporations and government agencies nationwide.”

“This award recognizes the inclusive nature of our approach to work every day. We were selected because of our programs and the spirit and energy behind our diversity work,” said Farryn Melton, chief procurement officer and member of BMS’ Global D&I Council. “Our strategic approach with suppliers contributes to overall efforts to ensure a diverse workforce.”

For example, the company gives diverse suppliers scholarships to help them expand their businesses and strategically align with the company’s business for future growth. Last year the company increased spending with diverse suppliers and is working toward breakthrough goals for 2016.

“The focus on building relationships with diverse suppliers supports our company’s mission and the patients we serve,” said David Gonzales, head of Global Diversity & Inclusion. “Supplier diversity provides economic development for communities and wealth creation for members of those populations. It also helps us better connect with our patients in the segments they represent.”

The NBIC represents leading business organizations like the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce, National Black Justice Coalition, U.S. Business Leadership Network and WEConnect International.

Want to know more? Click here to learn more about global diversity and inclusion at Bristol-Myers Squibb.