Connecting global ambition with local action
Discover insights on driving sustainable and inclusive growth from our first global Supplier Diversity townhall.
More than 140 colleagues, suppliers and NGO partners across six markets joined our first Global Supplier Diversity and Inclusion (SD&I) Townhall exploring how inclusive supply chains can foster innovation, strengthen resilience and support sustainable growth.
“The Standard Chartered SD&I programme serves as a powerful platform for diverse and small enterprises. It provides access to opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to secure with large corporations, while demonstrating that inclusive procurement creates value for all stakeholders. By leading through example, Standard Chartered not only supports the growth of diverse suppliers but also inspires suppliers and subcontractors across the wider supply chain to champion diversity and inclusion in their own procurement practices.”
– Nelson Chow, President of Institute for Supply Chain Management Hong Kong
Delivered across six markets, the townhall began with a shared virtual session to provide the Bank’s global perspective and align participants with our common ambition. Followed by locally led discussions on the opportunities, challenges and priorities most relevant to each market and awards for those that have driven significant change in our communities.
Participants considered the practical realities of corporate procurement, shared approaches to supporting the growth of diverse businesses and examined how sustainability can contribute to long-term commercial value. Through the sharing of stories, we have the ability to create a stronger programme for the future.
“They say that a chain is as strong as its weakest link. Each supplier and partner is a link in your supply chain. Today’s training really brought that to life, I really enjoyed your programme, and strongly believe it will help build that synergy and foster an environment of prosperity. Thank you for involving us.”
– Mohammad Wazir Alam, Executive Director, Saimon Group, AmexGBT partner Bangladesh
A consistent theme throughout the event was the importance of collaboration. By creating opportunities for diverse suppliers and developing mutually beneficial partnerships, organisations can support stronger businesses, more resilient supply chains and positive outcomes for the communities in which they operate.
“Thanks so much for organising such a great event and for creating an opportunity to connect and share the experience with other minority-owned businesses. It was a relaxed and welcoming environment, and a great opportunity to learn more about what is important to SC, ask questions, and openly share some of the challenges we have experienced when approaching other corporates. I really appreciate the openness and the opportunity to be part of it.”
– Sharon Baker, Associate Director, The Square London
The townhall also provided a foundation for the next phase of our work. As part of our programme, we intend to broaden engagement with businesses of different sizes and work more closely with larger suppliers to encourage inclusive procurement practices across multiple tiers of the value chain.
By connecting global ambition with local action, we aim to expand opportunity, strengthen our supplier ecosystem and create lasting value for our suppliers, communities and business.
Explore more
Supporting a diverse supply chain in Korea
Hear from two of our key diverse suppliers on how we’ve helped advance inclusive growth, innovation, and positiv…