"The Diversity Network is solely focused on creating a bridge between American businesses and the wealth of talent that exists in our multicultural work force," said Mr. Archer. "Our goal is to help corporations build a more inclusive culture and improve competitiveness."
"It just makes sense," Mr. Archer added, "when selling to diverse markets both here and around the world, to have a diverse workforce, management and leadership team who understand their needs. I am proud to be part of this endeavor because I know The Diversity Network can make a world of difference."
Several key indicators showing the impact of diversity on the economy support this endeavor, explained Archer. "By 2009, 70% of new entrants to the workplace will be women and people of color. And, in terms of buying power, African, Asian and Hispanic Americans alone will be a $2.6 billion market segment. No successful, growth-oriented company can afford to miss this explosive market opportunity."
Mr. Archer also announced The Diversity Network's Board of Directors during the press conference. "No other diversity consulting or recruitment agency that I know of today has a Board of Directors comprised of diverse individuals with such unique backgrounds, experience and commitment to promoting diversity as a key to business success," said Archer. "The commitment our Board brings to this new venture is unparalleled and I believe it will propel us to the forefront and help bring new and deserved attention to utilizing diversity as key to improving business competitiveness."
Board Members for The Diversity Network include: John Barth, Chairman and CEO, Johnson Controls; Henry Cisneros, Chairman, American City Vista and City View, Former Secretary of HUD; Matthew P. Cullen, General Manager, Economic Development and Enterprise Services, General Motors Corporation; Willie D. Davis, President and CEO, All-Pro Broadcasting, Inc.; Luther Elliss, Former NFL Star and Community Leader; Rick Inatome, CEO, InfiLaw, Inc.; W. Anthony Jenkins, Partner, Dickinson Wright, PLLC; Florine Mark, President and CEO, The WW Group, Inc.; and Dean C. Pitcairn, Consultant.
The Diversity Network has several strategic relationships already in place, including an agreement to work with Wayne County, Michigan to assist in their diversity employment and business development initiatives, and an exciting relationship with Fortune Magazine to partner on their annual diversity survey of the Fortune 1000 companies.
Employers, job seekers and minority suppliers are encouraged to visit www.thediversitynetwork.com to register, post jobs, identify supplier opportunities, and to learn more about the company's consulting and development services. "The Diversity Network provides a unique avenue where employees from diverse races and ethnic backgrounds can discover new markets for their professional employment and find new opportunities for personal growth and accomplishment," explained Archer. "Our system can match employers and job seekers in a very innovative personal manner to optimize the recruiting process."
Attending the press conference today were Wayne County Executive Robert A. Ficano, Diversity Best Practices President Edith Fraser, Fortune Magazine's P.J. Boatwright, and representatives from the region's most active corporations and organizations. The conference included comments from Louis Green, President of the Michigan Minority Business Development Council and Tammy Carnrike, Executive Vice President of the Detroit Regional Chamber.
Mr. Archer is the former 2-term Mayor of Detroit, former President of the American Bar Association and Chairman of Dickinson Wright law firm. He was recently appointed to Wal-Mart's Employment Practices Advisory Panel.
The Diversity Network is a certified minority supplier and a member of the Michigan Minority Business Development Council. The company's headquarters are located in Harper Woods, Michigan. Additional information regarding The Diversity Network can be found at the company's website, www.thediversitynetwork.com.
© 2006 Business Wire
