Enterprise Nation appoints SME supplier diversity champion

Enterprise Nation has appointed Maggie Berry OBE to lead its SME supplier diversity strategy ahead of the UK Procurement Act coming into force later this month.

A specialist in inclusive sourcing, Maggie will develop procurement and supplier-readiness programmes to help small businesses access new public sector opportunities. 

She previously led WEConnect International in Europe and Heart of the City, supporting SMEs in responsible business practices.

Maggie said: “It’s an exciting time to be working in this sector with a world of opportunity opening up for the SME community and Enterprise Nation going full steam ahead to make sure it’s a success. 

“What needs to happen next is to build a dynamic and healthy pipeline of SMEs that are ready to supply with all the right products and services and that can meet all the criteria. 

“But we also need procurement people or economic buyers to be open and willing to buy differently and have the confidence to buy from an SME. 

“Another key element is going to be visibility. 

“To get involved, SMEs will need visibility on what those opportunities are. 

“There's also going to be much more openness about what is being purchased, what stage the business is at and the broader pipeline - so preparing ahead and being ready will be crucial. 

“The gap for government and its strategic suppliers is that they don't always know where to find the SMEs with the right skills. 

“This will be a key part of my work with Enterprise Nation – helping SMEs to be ready and to ensure buyers know where they are, providing a significant impact on the economy.” 

The Procurement Act 2023 aims to simplify access to government contracts, allowing SMEs to showcase innovation, sustainability and social value in the public sector supply chain. 

Enterprise Nation continues to support supplier diversity through initiatives like the SME Supplier Eco-system Programme with Deloitte and its work with the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Emma Jones, CBE, founder and chief executive of Enterprise Nation, added: “Maggie has been a champion for SME supplier diversity for more than a decade and deeply understands the benefits that opening contracts to a broader range of suppliers can bring.  

“Accessing public sector work can act like a growth accelerator for SMEs. 

“Government contracts are solid and reliable and pay within 30 days. 

“They help SMEs develop and invest in new processes, products and efficiencies, as well as take on more staff in their local community. 

“By seeing Government procurement through this lens, opening up contracts to more diverse and community-based businesses will be a very powerful way to deliver economic growth. 

“Maggie is going to help us build alliances and develop supplier-ready programmes that champion the power of small businesses.” 

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