HOME TRUST
sometimes that translates into delayed career growth . If I could do it all over again , would I change anything ? Absolutely not . I think people need to measure their happiness by how fulfilled their life is . And personally , I don ' t know that I would be able to ever feel fulfilled without having my family .”
She is also adamant that ‘ procurement ’ in general , needs women because of the unique talents that they bring to the business table . “ I think women have a very strong emotional intelligence , and that is crucial to being a great leader , strong negotiator , and a good business partner .”
Diversity in the industry As part of her mission in procurement to increase diversity levels , Cancar-Todorovic has introduced the Corporate Supplier Diversity Program to Home Trust . The initiative was launched in January 2021 and has been instrumental in successfully forming a number of significant business relationships with certified diverse suppliers , which will be expanded upon .
The current focus is on tier-1 suppliers , and as the company evolves there are plans to shift that focus to include tier-2 suppliers as well .
“ All roads are pointing to the fact that we might be hit with another pandemic in our lifetime ”
SANJA CANCAR-TODOROVIC ENTERPRISE PROCUREMENT , OUTSOURCING & VENDOR MANAGEMENT LEADER , HOME TRUST
Home Trust is now a corporate sponsor to the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council , which is the organisation that certifies Aboriginal and minority-owned businesses , as well as the corporate sponsor to Women Business Enterprise Canada , which is the organisation that certifies women-owned business .
She explains , “ A diverse and inclusive environment facilitates a broader exchange of perspectives and better reflects the true makeup of our society . So , choosing to do business with organisations that share the same values as us , and building a portfolio of viable competitive and diverse suppliers , allows us to make better business decisions while helping to create healthier communities and differentiate ourselves in the hearts and minds of our customers .”
Cancar-Todorovic believes the procurement industry lends itself perfectly to meeting diversity objectives in the workplace as well as in business .
“ Over the years I have seen an increase in women coming into this industry , and it makes me happy ,” she says . “ I ' m not surprised by it because this industry is
126 November 2021