Kathy April Rush, manager, supplier diversity and small business liaison officer, led the effort to launch and develop the supplier diversity program at AbbVie, Inc., a global, research-based biopharmaceutical company formed in 2013 following separation from Abbott Laboratories. Kathy is working to define clear standards for supplier diversity to effectively serve the business. She has built a robust program in a short period of time through best practices that include senior management engagement as well as strong outreach and advocacy efforts with measurable results.

Coupled with creating opportunities for the procurement team to actively identify, source and contract with diverse suppliers, Kathy put a system of goal setting in place. Goals are measured using numerous metrics. In 2013, AbbVie reported $190 million in spend with minority-and women-owned businesses. The progress made under Kathy’s leadership is remarkable given the short period of time the program has been in existence.

Kathy is a published author and former president of the chicago chapter, National Black MBA Association

(NBMBAA) and served as vice-chair of the CEO Chapter President’s Advisory Board for the NBMBAA.

Favorite Quote:

“A life isn’t significant except for its impact on other lives.” - Jackie Robinson

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