December 9, 2022 – Dameka Miller is the vice president of strategic sourcing and value analysis for Trinity Health in Livonia, Michigan. Read an excerpt from The Journal of Healthcare Contracting’s “Women Leaders in Supply Chain” below.
When you hear words like diversity and equity in the workplace, what does that mean to you? How can they contribute to the success of an organization?
Attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion signals that an organization is striving to achieve a culture in which everyone is comfortable being themselves at work. Being biracial, my appearance frequently raises questions from colleagues about my ethnicity. Often it is innocent curiosity; however, I have been subject to several offensive comments and behaviors by both peers and leaders. The creative energy and productivity lost navigating these types of distractions is not insignificant nor unusual for anyone perceived to be different in their work environment. Organizations get the best from their people when they do not feel guarded and judged simply based on who they are.
Has anyone come alongside you to mentor you during your career? If so, can you tell us about that?
My career began with three mentors that shaped who I am as a leader. They were my direct leaders and for them, leadership was about making others better. There was intentional focus on both my personal and professional goals, and they positioned me for opportunities for continued growth. Nearly 20 years later, one remains a mentor and when I thank her for the impact she has had on my life, she reminds me to pay it forward. I was incredibly fortunate to begin my career with people-focused leaders and aim to have the same impact on others.
To see the rest of our Women Leaders in Supply Chain list, click here.