Fernando Martinez
Sr. Vice President of Network Success National Minority Supplier Development Council
A seasoned business executive with more than three decades’ experience in sales and operations, Fernando Martinez has been President and CEO of the Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council since 2008. Fernando leads the Council’s growth and economic impact upon minority businesses in the Northwest Mountain region. He is responsible for helping develop Minority Business Enterprises into companies that can meet and support the specific needs of the Council’s corporate and public agency members. Fernando works with Council members to identify opportunities and integrate minority suppliers into their strategic supply chains, with the objective of improving customer value and satisfaction. From 2013 to 2014, Fernando was Chair of the National MCSD’s President’s Council, leading 36 regional Council presidents through a national strategic restructure. In 2015 he received the inaugural NMSDC Vanguard Leadership Award. He currently serves as a member of the City of Seattle Mayor’s WMBE Advisory Committee, Seattle Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Volunteers of America of Western Washington Board of Directors. Fernando is currently supporting several corporate members’ Supplier Diversity Process launch, while expanding their understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practices. Prior to joining the Council, Fernando led and managed business units within companies including Xerox Corporation, Starbucks Corporation, Westin Hotels & Resorts, and the former Washington Mutual, Inc. His work resulted in successful collaborations between operations and sales and delivered year-over- over increases in efficiencies, revenue, and profit. Fernando has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas at El Paso and a M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix. Fernando has 4 children and 5 grandchildren, all residing in Seattle, WA.
Panel Information
Friday, August 4
11:00 AM MDT
General Session- Driving Progress: The Indomitable Influence of Latinos in U.S. Economic and Workforce Development
atinos have long played an integral role in shaping our nation’s economy, innovating across various sectors, and strengthening the fabric of our diverse workforce. From starting small businesses that drive local economies to holding key roles in multinational corporations, Latinos have become synonymous with entrepreneurship and leadership. They've shown resilience and innovation, overcoming challenges and consistently proving to be the backbone of our economic infrastructure.
Latino workers also continue to transform workforce development, carving out new opportunities and opening doors for the next generation of diverse talent. They not only contribute to our economy but also foster inclusive growth, ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for all.
Join us as we celebrate these remarkable accomplishments, delve into the unique experiences of Latino economic empowerment, and explore the ongoing, crucial role of Latinos in the ongoing evolution of America's workforce and economy.