KELLY GRAINGER
SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
Supplier diversity is often viewed as a way to mitigate risk , ensuring businesses aren ’ t overly reliant on a single source . While this is true , it doesn ’ t represent the whole picture . Supply chains are evolving quickly , shaped by geopolitics , economic shifts and consumer expectations – so much so that making them more inclusive now offers a strategic advantage .
Diverse supply chains create jobs in underrepresented communities , stimulate economic growth and drive innovation by introducing fresh perspectives . In fact , research from the UK ’ s Federation of Small Businesses ( FSB ) shows that diverse businesses are 11 % more likely to have engaged in recent product or service innovation . As a result , an inclusive supplier network strengthens connections with customers , broadens market insights and , ultimately , boosts competitiveness .
Having said this , ensuring fair labour practices , opening up opportunities for underrepresented groups and building truly diverse supplier networks is a large task to address in one fell swoop . It is important to consult those with lived experience and knowledge of how to implement these initiatives , such as husband and wife team Kelly and Hester Grainger , Co-Founders of Perfectly Autistic . With a combined total of more than 45 years ’ work experience , they help industry leaders understand the importance of neuro-inclusivity to ensure a thriving work environment .
KELLY GRAINGER
TITLE : CO-FOUNDER COMPANY : PERFECTLY AUTISTIC INDUSTRY : CONSULTANCY
Kelly , an autistic and ADHD neurodiversity consultant , co-founded Perfectly Autistic with his wife Hester to promote workplace neurodiversity awareness and support through training and mediation .
Neurodiversity : An overlooked supply chain asset “ Being neuro-inclusive is an essential part of any genuine DE & I ( diversity , equity and inclusion ) strategy ,” asserts Kelly . “ They ensure that workplaces are accessible , fair and supportive for everyone – including the estimated 20 % of the workforce that is neurodivergent .”
This is an attitude the team at SumUp have adopted , recognising the unique strengths of neurodivergent individuals and actively supporting them by raising awareness , adapting workspaces and offering flexible working .
Kelly reiterates this , saying : “ We ’ ve worked with organisations who have embraced staff to let them be themselves whether that ’ s providing written instructions , rather than verbal , offering noise-cancelling headphones , or flexible work schedules . Companies often find that not only do they retain talent that had previously been
90 March 2025