Lawrence B. Wooten, Director of National Supplier Engagement & Development Strategy at American Water is a passionate advocate for the inclusion of suppliers that mirror the communities he serves in the sourcing process. Over the past 7-8 years American Water has seen significant growth in partnership with small and diverse businesses due in large part to Larry’s strategic vision. American Water has achieved this high standard of engagement without sacrificing cost, quality, or delivery. Providing opportunities is the hallmark of the strategy, and suppliers understand they must compete for American Water business. Larry builds consensus across the company and gains the confidence and respect of colleagues within the diverse business community. He is a mentor for many within the profession, and has demonstrated a willingness to speak and support the next generation of professionals, so much so that his son Lawrence A. Wooten leads Synchrony Bank’s small business initiative.
Larry believes the profession requires commitment and a willingness to step out of personal comfort zone. For example, at a previous employer, he identified opportunities with HBCUs, meeting with deans to discuss whether the HBCU engineering program professionals would meet with the company’s leadership to showcase the capabilities of the engineering department and students. This strategy led to three HBCUs being awarded research and development grants and the employer’s HR seeing an opportunity to recruit students after graduation. Challenges include working with corporations that have a mature supply base, limiting opportunities for new suppliers. He believes inclusion is created by identifying what is important to stakeholders and how supplier diversity can support them.