Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Specialist (14039, Grade 28)

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission•Riverdale, MD

About The Position

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), a six-time National Recreation and Parks Association Gold Medal Award Winner, is currently seeking a highly motivated, customer service-oriented team player to serve as a Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Specialist within the Department of Human Resources and Management (DHRM). Under the direction of the Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Chief, the successful candidate will be a detail-oriented, self-motivated change agent who drives operational excellence. The Office of Supplier Diversity and Inclusion (SDI) is committed to growing local small businesses and promoting economic growth in the communities in which we live and work. We operate with purpose and intention to serve diverse and emerging businesses. This is a highly visible position in a fast-paced environment that will provide an exciting career opportunity for the successful candidate.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Public Policy, History, Political Science, Psychology or any related field.
Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience that includes substantive work in the range of duties and responsibilities in this class specification.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total 8 years.
Valid driver's license in accordance with both State and Commission rules and regulations. Driver's licenses must be unencumbered by restrictions, revocations, suspensions, or points that could limit the employee's ability to drive Commission vehicles or perform driving duties required of their position.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience in supplier diversity programs, including vendor outreach and certification processes
Strong analytical skills to interpret data and identify trends in supplier diversity
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations regarding supplier diversity
Proficiency in data management tools and reporting software.

Responsibilities

Conduct market research to identify potential small/locally owned and/or diverse suppliers across various categories.
Utilize supplier diversity databases and certification programs to find eligible vendors.
Reach out to small/locally owned and/or diverse potential suppliers through networking, outreach events, and direct communication.
Review and verify supplier certifications related to the status of businesses as being small and locally owned.
Review and verify supplier certifications related to minority, women, veteran, and disability ownership.
Manage the supplier certification process, including data collection, verification, and documentation.
Ensure compliance with company policies and legal requirements regarding supplier diversity.
Track and analyze supplier spend data to identify opportunities to increase diverse supplier engagement.
Generate reports on supplier diversity metrics, including spend breakdown by diverse supplier categories.
Present findings to key stakeholders to demonstrate progress towards diversity goals.
Work closely with procurement teams to integrate supplier diversity considerations into sourcing strategies.
Provide support to procurement teams in identifying and evaluating diverse suppliers during the bidding process.
Conduct training sessions for internal stakeholders on supplier diversity policies and best practices.
Develop and implement supplier diversity awareness programs for potential vendors.