Q&A with AT&T’s Supplier Diversity Executive Director Joan Kerr

MBN: When did AT&T form its supplier diversity program?

JK: We are celebrating the 40th anniversary of our Supplier Diversity Programs this year.Our programs began in 1968, and have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supplier diversity leadership since their inception. AT&T has helped pioneer the inclusion of diversity-owned businesses and is widely recognized for its world-class programs.

MBN: What was AT&T’s supplier diversity spend in 2006 and/or 2007?

JK: AT&T’s commitment to supplier diversity is evident in the benchmark-best spending results we have achieved. In 2006, AT&T spent $5.15 billion with diverse suppliers, representing 13 percent of the company’s procurement base. In the past 10 years,AT&T has spent over $24 billion with diversity-owned companies, representing 17 percent of our total procurement dollars. During this same period, AT&T increased its spending with diverse suppliers by 300 percent.According to 2005 benchmark studies from the Center for Advanced Purchasing Studies (www.capsresearch.org), this spending achievement is more than double that of other companies.

MBN: How long have you been in the supplier diversity arena?

JK: I have worked with AT&T’s Supplier Diversity Programs for 19 years. I began as the program’s legal counsel while working in AT&T’s legal department.I later transitioned to lead the program in 1993.

MBN: How has supplier diversity changed since you first entered the arena?

JK: Many more companies have supplier diversity programs and there is a greater emphasis on the competitive business advantages that diverse suppliers bring to corporations.

MBN: What does a day in the life of Joan Kerr look like at AT&T?

JK: My day is usually packed with meetings, whether in person or via video or teleconference.The meetings are focused on the development and execution of strategies to increase and improve the participation of diverse suppliers in corporate supply chains. I meet with my wonderful team members at AT&T, the prime suppliers we work with to create diversity opportunities, AT&T’s incumbent diversity suppliers, supplier diversity stakeholder advocates, and members of the various board of directors on which I serve. I also meet with the wide range of AT&T organizations that play a key role in our company’s supplier diversity success.

MBN: How important is supplier diversity for business in America and globally?

JK: Supplier diversity is more important than ever for businesses in the U.S.and abroad,as it helps to create a universally healthy business climate. It is critical to include all historically underutilized businesses in corporate supply chains across the world, as companies need to benefit from a diverse pool of suppliers, business partners and thriving potential consumers.

MBN: In your opinion, what does supplier diversity look like in 2015?

JK: In 2015, supplier diversity will be a thriving initiative around the globe. Most countries will have an initiative to certify historically underutilized businesses. Diverse suppliers will be partnering with each other across national borders to combine their strengths for greater shared success. Corporations, governments and advocacy groups are working to maximize the participation of HUBs in both the private and public sector. Definitions of HUBs will be country-specific, but there will be a shared recognition that we all win when everyone is participating in building a healthy economy