To triple spend with diverse vendors within three years, Latifah Jackson, Vendor Engagement Director at University Health, used
strategies that fostered long-term relationships and created opportunities that had a genuine, sustainable impact. She introduced
an Open House event for vendors to meet key decision makers and mentors potential suppliers, offering guidance through the
certification process, registering on the vendor portal, and connecting with relevant resources. Each local supplier's success bolsters
their business, creates jobs, and positively impacts the local economy. Helping vendors navigate opportunities is Latifah’ s passion
because of the difference it makes for vendors and the community.
Latifah led the shift to an online e-bidding platform, dramatically reducing the burden on vendors and making the bid submission
process faster and more efficient, cost-effective, and convenient. It also helps foster stronger supplier relationships. On a broader
scale, the transition to e-bidding aligns with the commitment to sustainability by significantly reducing the carbon footprint. Latifah
summarizes her key best practices as education and communication. She ensures vendors and internal teams clearly understand
business processes, needs, and the importance of strategic sourcing. Latifah also drives open, transparent communication in the
supplier engagement program.