From Leonard Spencer, Director of Supplier Diversity
Earlier this year on the Disney Parks Blog, we shared the tremendous passion that The Walt Disney Company’s Supplier Diversity team has for positively impacting the diverse supplier community. Now, I am thrilled to share that this hard work has been recognized as Disney has been named as a “Corporation of the Year” by The National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)!
This award is NMSDC’s highest honor to a major corporation for the utilization of ethnic minority-owned suppliers, specifically those with Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native-American owners. Our Supplier Diversity team works hard to create an inclusive supply chain where we identify diverse suppliers that help the company deliver world-class entertainment experiences to our guests in our theme parks and resorts around the world. When we identify and work with diverse companies, not only do we contribute to their growth, but we also gain marketplace insights that enrich our content, enhance our offerings and make a difference in the communities where we live, work and play.
The Supplier Diversity team also recently showcased the story of Badia Spices on the Disney Parks Blog. The inspiring story highlighted the business who supplies spices and seasoning blends to our restaurants and has been one of our leading suppliers since 2005. Thanks to the variety of the spices that Badia supplies to our parks, we’re able to create magic through fan-favorite culinary delights. We are proud of our work in ensuring a pipeline of opportunity where minority businesses can participate and thrive in Disney’s economic system, and I am thankful for the entire team’s efforts in making this possible.
I had the honor to accept this award on behalf of Disney and could not help beaming with pride for my team and the immeasurable support and passion that they have for this line of work. Stay tuned for even more stories on our diverse suppliers in the months to come!