Supplier Diversity Support by DA4S
What is DA4S, and what are they up to that you need to know about?
DA4S stands for Diversity Alliance for Science and its main goal is to enrich supplier diversity programs by connecting their members (including one of their newest ones…Titanium!), which are qualified small and diverse life science suppliers, with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Guided by a volunteer board of directors (some of whom are members of Titanium), the organization hosts annual conferences as well as various educational webinars and programs that happen throughout the year in order to provide suppliers with valuable opportunities to foster relationships with corporations invested in diversity.
DA4S held the first of their two annual conferences virtually this past March as a means to provide networking, connection and educational value to suppliers and buyers in the life science industry. Titanium member, Beth Crouse of 2nd Spark, is on the board of DA4S board and leads the committee responsible for developing exceptional content for the event. She created two important sessions: “The Path Forward to Leveraging Black Businesses” and “Procurement in a Post Pandemic World.”
The extremely relevant session of elevating black businesses included personal stories from incredible black business owners who are solving present-day issues and breaking down barriers. Supplier diversity leaders also shared how companies outside of the healthcare industry are making big commitments to raise the profiles of black businesses through innovative programs. Important discussions were had around how to take action and drive change.
Titanium founding member, Lisa Dolan of ALOM, moderated the panel of procurement professionals from leading pharmaceutical companies GSK, AbbVie, Takeda and AstraZeneca, and spoke about the major impacts Covid-19 has had on the healthcare supply chain. Discussions were had over complexity being the new norm and how risk mitigation is taking priority for all organizations worldwide. It was also underscored how we are now in a time of opportunity for diverse suppliers as corporations are looking to ensure supply chain resiliency.
These power sessions held at DA4S’ annual conferences are open to the public and provide valuable insight. Those considering membership will have access to special events, such as their “8 That Innovate” award (the one that Titanium is excited to enter), among others. For information on future events, upcoming programing, becoming a member and learning how they can help your company grow, head to their website HERE.