Business Diversity Compliance Specialist

Business Diversity Compliance Specialist

Reporting to the Senior Manager of Business Diversity, the Business Diversity Compliance Specialist will be responsible for ensuring compliance with Business Diversity initiatives and assisting in the development and implementation of strategies to promote participation in public contracting and procurement of all qualified and available businesses owned and controlled by minorities and women. The Business Diversity Compliance Specialist will support the achievement of departmental and district aspirational goals by monitoring compliance with diversity requirements, identifying opportunities, making recommendations for improvement, and providing information and assistance related to the MBE and WBE Program.

This is a full-time, exempt position that will be paid for time worked on a salary basis. This position will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:

• Review each solicitation issued by the Procurement Department and ensure compliance with CPS' Remedial Program Policies. Survey specific industries, marketplace, and supplier or vendor availability through the B2

Gnow Software to establish aspirational goals. Insert appropriate Affirmative Action language for solicitation and Board Report.

• Review MBE and WBE plans submitted by suppliers and vendors to assist with the evaluation process for all bids, proposals, and qualifications. Work with suppliers and vendors to identify certified MBE and WBE companies to help achieve solicitation goals. Oversee vendor certification verification process.

• Work directly with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement strategic plans within their assigned categories and users, thereby helping to ensure the development and capacity building of diverse suppliers for the District.

• Participate in pre-submittal conferences for RFPs, RFQs, and Bids. Facilitate meetings with suppliers, vendors, user departments, and Procurement staff to discuss and remediate performance issues (if any) resulting in non-compliance on contract.

• Provide MBE and WBEs with relevant information and assistance related to CPS procurement practices and procedures, bid specifications, documentation requirements, and prerequisites.

• Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual program evaluation reports and scorecards to be presented to the Board on Minority-Owned Business Enterprise and Women-Owned Business Enterprise performance as it relates to commitments versus the actual utilization of MBE and WBE on contracts.

• Provide training and assistance to CPS staff and other interested persons on Program objectives and requirements.

• Represent Chicago Public Schools Office of Business Diversity at community-based organization events, vendor fairs and other networking opportunities to ensure the Minority-Owned Business Enterprise and Women-Owned Business Enterprise community is well informed of upcoming contracting opportunities.

• Other duties as assigned

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, this position must possess the following qualifications:

Education Required:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university

Experience

Required:

• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience, including a minimum of two (2) years of experience in compliance, business diversity, financial analysis, project management, business development, or a related field

• Experience with procurement practices and/or supply chain

• Previous experience in engaging different departments, organizations, individuals, communities, and different levels of stakeholders to build partnerships that support aspirational goals and drive results is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a business to provide insightful recommendations to address deficiencies and monitor for future opportunities

• Ability to participate and work in diverse environments with strong personalities, great ability to build rapport, and establish working relationships quickly

• Ability to deliver high-quality work in a fast-paced environment, successfully meet established…