Partnering with our Suppliers
In our project delivery , we often retain and rely upon subcontractors for specialized support , and our subcontractor network constitutes our primary supplier network . While subcontractor relationships vary based on individual project needs ( e . g ., electrical engineering , construction services , environmental services ), there were no significant changes in the location , structure , or relationships within our supply chain during the reporting period .
It is essential that our subcontractors share our vision when it comes to Safety , Quality , Security and Sustainability .
Diversity Contracting
We continue to develop strong collaborative partnerships with diverse suppliers and partners on our project efforts , including working with Minority- Owned Business Enterprises ( MBE ), Women- Owned Business Enterprises ( WBE ), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises ( DBE ), Veteran-Owned Business Enterprises ( VBE ), Historically Underutilized Business Zones , and other local small businesses ( SB ).
By using team members that work and live in the area , we reinforce our commitment to the community , validate that we are truly invested in their prosperity , and respect their contribution to the specific project . Equally important is the connectivity and transfer of information that supports a common mentorship .
Our ability to win new work and retain existing work with many of our clients requires that we have a systematic approach to pre-qualifying subcontractors , especially those working in safety-sensitive environments such as refineries , substations , and industrial facilities .
Our quality management plans outline specific procedures for screening subcontractors for their ability to perform the services required and any specific quality control and other requirements related to their services . We screen all subcontractors to ensure they have the necessary technical expertise required for the project and meet applicable safety , quality , and financial standards .
We partner with Avetta , a third-party company which performs prequalification audits of suppliers , in order to manage our supplier screening efforts in a more formal and systematic manner . This partnership helps us to gather data on subcontractors ’ performance , with an initial focus on safety and quality . We are also exploring opportunities to integrate environmental and other sustainability considerations within our subcontractor screening process . With better information on our subcontractors ’ policies and procedures , we will be able to further communicate best practices to our clients .
OUR FY20 SPEND WITH DIVERSE AND SMALL BUSINESSES
42 % of total spend
We are committed to partnerships with suppliers that also share our dedication to conducting business in a legal , ethical , and socially responsible manner .
Our Supplier Code of Conduct states our expectations in the areas of business integrity , labor practices , human rights , employee health and safety and environmental management .
26 2020 Sustainability Report