Karin Cozzi is the Senior Supply Chain Manager, Supplier Diversity at DTE Energy. In her role, she leverages the organization’s supplier diversity and inclusion initiatives to drive economic progress. Strategies include developing the capabilities of diverse suppliers, supporting buyers by hosting bi-monthly meetings to review bid opportunities, utilizing metrics to track progress on goals, providing resources to buyers via the online SharePoint site, and communicating expectations in company procedures and contract terms. Through this comprehensive effort, Karin has seen DTE’s sourcing program gain momentum; spend with diverse suppliers has increased more than 50% since 2018.
As one of Michigan's leading corporate citizens, DTE Energy is a force for growth and prosperity in the 450 Michigan communities it serves in a variety of ways, including philanthropy, volunteerism and economic progress. Karin and other leaders in Supply Chain participate on multiple speaker panels. DTE employees attend meetings and conferences to connect with diverse suppliers.
Karin promotes supplier-to-supplier collaboration and mentorship. She works with other Detroit-based companies and DTE Human Resources to create workforce development and employment opportunities for youth and adults. Karin is currently working with the team that standardized Customer Service Representative training for utilization across multiple industries and provides hiring and promotional opportunities for people facing barriers to employment.