Program Manager, Supplier Diversity Programs

Summary

The Program Manager, of Supplier Diversity Programs is primarily responsible for overseeing specific NYPA/Canal supplier diversity supply chain programs focused on developing and sustaining relationships between current customer, diverse and non-diverse suppliers. The position ensures that that supplier diversity supply chain programs attract quality, reliable and sustainable suppliers who can meet current and future customer needs. The position utilizes the efforts to broaden the scope of the diverse supplier base throughout NYS and beyond.

The position ensures that the supplier diversity supply chain programs encourage and support prime contractors and diverse firms to develop long standing and mutual beneficial relationships. This position maintains a strong networking and collaborative relationship with Office of General Services, Empire State Development and the Division of Minority and Women’s Development’s (DMWBD) Business Development, Certification and Compliance areas.

Responsibilities

• Develop supplier diversity programs with corresponding tools, resources, training, and guidance to enhance inclusion and enablement of New York State diverse firms.
• Work closely with supplier diversity staff assigned to supply chain programs.
• Develop and maintain multiple levels of relationships with major suppliers who can include non-diverse and diverse, as well as state agencies and authorities (i.e., Empire State Development, NYS SDVOB, NYNJNMSDC, AABE); participate in external organizations that support supplier diversity and DEI supply chain issues.
• Assist with the development and implementation of the marketing/sales/communication plans for supply chain programs.
• Proactively identify and recommend to senior management solutions to market programs to suppliers and public.
• Carry out policies and strategies for success with respect to the diverse supplier base that are set by Manager, Supplier Diversity and VP Strategic Supply Management.
• Coordinate internal business development and NYPA departments (such as Legal, Risk, HR, Corp Comm, SRM) in matters related to the development, marketing, and training for programs.
• Assist with preparation of program budget.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Must possess knowledge of implementing supply chain programs for small businesses and diverse suppliers.   
• Working knowledge of contracts, strategic planning, finance, supply chain is required.  
• Significant experience with working with small businesses and diverse suppliers.
• Familiarity with governmental/public customers is preferred.
• Knowledge of NYPA’s organizational structure, facilities and operations, legal basis preferred.
• Ability to think creatively and possess strong ability to analyze problems.
• Excellent oral, written and presentation communication skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively deal in and with an unstructured environment is required.  Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously is required. 
• Excellent negotiating skills are required as incumbent will be responsible for managing relationships between NYPA/Canal, diverse, non-diverse and customers when required.
• Ability to motivate and lead a team is required as well as ability to develop strong working relationships with other groups within NYPA/Canals.
• Ability to represent NYP/Canal DEI supply chain perspectives formally and informally to both internal and external stakeholders is required.
• Ability to stay current on changes in the utility industry, economy, and supplier related issues.
 

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, economics, finance, supplier marketing, or a related discipline.  MBA is preferred.
• At least 5 years of supervisory/management preferred.
• Experience in working with diverse and non-diverse suppliers (external and/or internal).
• Experience in the utility industry desired.
• Experience in program management, program development, supplier outreach, process improvement, analytics and or financial analysis desired.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform standard office work.
• Approximately 30% primarily NYS based travel is required. Some out of state travel may be required.