When everyone is included, everyone wins.

When everyone
is included,
everyone wins.

Jesse Jackson

FEATURED VIDEO

An Introduction to MSDUK.

Who We Are

We are the UK’s leading supplier diversity advocacy organisation. We are the driving force behind a more inclusive and diverse business ecosystem. We connect Ethnic Minority Businesses with global corporations that recognise the immense value of inclusive partnerships. Our unwavering dedication is to creating equal opportunities for everyone.

Our Core Values

Broader Representation

We’re committed to creating a more inclusive corporate supply chain that fully represents Ethnic Minority Businesses.

Embrace Diversity

We take decisive action to promote the power of diversity, innovation, and education to build a more equitable society.

Strength & Resilience

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion helps us create a stronger, more resilient organisation.

Inclusion

We commit to include diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at every level of our organisation.

Who We Are

We are the UK’s leading supplier diversity advocacy organization. We are the driving force behind a more inclusive and diverse business ecosystem. We connect Ethnic Minority Businesses with global corporations that recognize the immense value of inclusive partnerships. Our unwavering dedication is to creating equal opportunities for everyone.

Our Core Values

Broader Representation

We’re committed to creating a more inclusive corporate supply chain that fully represents Ethnic Minority Businesses.

Embrace Diversity

We take decisive action to promote the power of diversity, innovation, and education to build a more equitable society.

Strength & Resilience

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion helps us create a stronger, more resilient organisation.

Inclusion

We commit to include diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at every level of our organisation.

Meet Our Team

Our team is the powerhouse behind MSDUK. With over 70% women employees and representation from over 14 nationalities, we embrace and celebrate our diversity.

Mayank Shah

Mayank Shah

Founder & CEO

Mayank Shah

Mayank is the Founder and CEO of MSDUK. His passion for supplier diversity started in 2002 when he started his PhD in this area and twenty years on, his enthusiasm and commitment to see ethnic minority businesses succeed and corporations be more diverse in their supply chain remains intact. He brings with him nearly 35 years of entrepreneurial experience and is considered a global thought leader on supplier diversity. Mayank is married and his lovely wife Nisha is equally committed to MSDUK helping the team as and when needed. In his free time, he loves visiting their son in Bristol and daughter in Barcelona; he loves cooking and trying to get back to painting. He does think he is very good in table tennis but that needs some testing!

Reshma Sheikh

Managing Director

Reshma is MSDUK’s Managing Director, and she is at the forefront of steering MSDUK towards a future marked by diversity and innovation. Reshma brings to MSDUK the experience of leading diverse commercial businesses with a global client perspective, coupled with a detailed understanding of procurement processes and practices. Throughout her professional journey, she has navigated roles in corporate, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and the non-profit sector. Demonstrating a consistent ability to achieve challenging objectives, whether leading senior leadership teams, implementing business strategies, or driving business growth. Beyond her professional role, she cherishes a spiritual connection, embracing a wellness-centered lifestyle, all while joyfully raising two children.

Jean Chawapiwa

Jean Chawapiwa

Head of Member Services

Jean Chawapiwa

Jean is the Head of Membership Services, and previously she was Country Director for WEConnect International in South Africa, working with many of the same Corporate Members as MSDUK. Her passion for entrepreneurship development has made Jean very familiar with the global SD&I opportunities and challenges. Jean has also held leadership roles in the mining sector, her last role (2007-2012) was Vice President External Affairs and Communications for Rio Tinto. She has also sat on varied Industry Boards and Chambers of Commerce; she was Chair of Junior Achievement Africa Board from 2015 to 2019.

Bao Tieu

Bao Tieu

Head of Business and Ventures

Bao Tieu

Bao is the Head of Business and Ventures at MSDUK. Bao Tieu has been working in enterprise education and supporting startups for over 8 years. He led the entrepreneurship team at UCL Innovation & Enterprise, making the UCL Hatchery startup incubator one of the UK’s leading university startup support programmes. Bao joined MSDUK wanting to use his skills and experience to make a difference. His work at MSDUK aims to create new opportunities for ethnic minority entrepreneurs and ventures to realise their full potential by levelling the playing field in enterprise education, support and connections that many dont have access to. Diversity will always deliver value for all stakeholders and he hopes to contribute to demonstrating this in his own small way.

Nadia Forde

Nadia Forde

Head of Operations

Nadia Forde

Nadia is the Head of Operations with a portfolio comprising business operations, executive education programmes, marketing and communications, and events. She brings her extensive experience in projects and operations in the UK’s higher education sector. Nadia is passionate about driving improvements across business processes and practices. She enjoys working with people and supporting them in their personal and professional growth. Nadia believes that by being inclusive and working collaboratively businesses can achieve a positive impact beyond what they had thought was possible or imaginable. In her spare time, Nadia enjoys painting and, recently, gardening.

Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Senior Corporate Relationship Manager

Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Sheena is the Corporate Relationship Manager at MSDUK. Sheena has vast experience in relationships management and she joined MSDUK because she wanted to be a part of something meaningful that was focused on a positive change, inclusivity whilst being sustainable, sifting the way we think, work and operate. She works closely with her corporate members to understand their needs all the while setting realistic and achievable goals. Rome wasnt built overnight and in the same manner diversifying supply chains will also require patience but with persistence. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with the family, cooking (and when permitted) travelling the world exploring new cultures and cuisines.

Karolina Jagodzinska

Karolina Jagodzinska

Senior Manager for the Innovation Hub

Karolina Jagodzinska

Karolina is the Programme Manager looking after the MSDUK Accelerator. As part of her role, she is responsible for nurturing and developing the MSDUK start-up community and ensuring businesses in the network grow and access new opportunities. Karolina joined MSDUK because she believes in the power of people coming together to make change happen. In her free time, Karolina likes crocheting and has recently picked up sewing. She enjoys good long films with popcorn.

Kamila Rafiqi

Kamila Rafiqi

Innovation Challenge Programme Manager

Kamila Rafiqi

Kamila is the Programme Manager for the Innovation Challenge and is part of the Innovation Hub Team at MSDUK. Kamila joined MSDUK as she strongly believes in diversity and inclusion in the workplace and wants to see equal opportunities for all. As well as wanting to see more diverse teams in businesses, Kamila wants to help and support start-ups and SMEs realise their potential to achieve long-term growth and success. She has an ambition to visit as many countries as possible, and she also enjoys long walks and has a passion for crime fiction novels.

Meghan Bradley

Marketing Manager

Meghan is our Marketing Manager. She heads the marketing and looks after all things creative, ensuring that the brand remains consistent across all aspects of the organisation. Whether itis print, digital or animation, she is a multidisciplinary professional who takes projects from ideation through to completion. Meghan joined MSDUK because she believes supplier diversity is important as it helps drive competition, as well as creating equal opportunities for all, helping to reduce inequality. In her spare time Meghan likes going to restaurants and enjoying different cuisines, as well as having a passion for martial arts and all things creative.

Hinda Ibrahim

Hinda Ibrahim

Programme Manager

Hinda Ibrahim

Hinda is responsible for the delivery of high-impact executive education programmes that are designed to allow EMBs to overcome challenges, build strategic relationships, and advance business capabilities. These programmes play a pivotal role in helping EMBs leverage their supply chain strategy to gain a competitive advantage with large companies. Hinda joined MSDUK to champion its aim of diversifying the supply chain and ensuring that it is inclusive of ethnic minority businesses. Furthermore, highlighting the values of having a diverse supplier base, as it will expose companies to a diverse range of ideas and solutions. In her spare time, Hinda enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to a range of podcasts and baking.

Priyanka Chaudhary

Priyanka Chaudhary

Corporate Relationship Manager

Priyanka Chaudhary

Priyanka was appointed as the Member Services Associate during late 2021. She is responsible for providing support to the Members Team who manage over 100 Corporate members accounts, assisting in projects, looking after the team communication and process management, and also working and leading on the partnerships managed by the Members team. She is also responsible in supporting the business development team with EMB recruitment. She is keen on learning about the private sector development and joined MSDUK as she believes that the development of private sector can only be possible when businesses of all kinds have equal opportunity to grow. In her spare time, she like to travel to new places, meet new people, and explore new cuisines.

Shazeda Begum

Shazeda Begum

Programme Co-ordinator

Shazeda Begum

Shazeda is the Programme Co-ordinator for the MSDUK Accelerator. Her role is to support MSDUKs start-up community by aiding them through their development as entrepreneurs during their time on the programme. She joined MSDUK because she was passionate about working for a company that believed in making an impactful difference for the ethnic minority community and which supported the growth of this community. She hopes that she can learn more about business, the corporate world, and entrepreneurship whilst working for MSDUK. Outside of work, she loves to spend her time reading and writing, watching the latest films, and spending time in cafes.

Ashwin Ashokkumar Iyer

Business Analyst

Ashwin is the Business Analyst at MSDUK, some of his responsibilities include analysing the data to inform business decisions, finding technological solutions to business needs, stakeholder management, and analysing the design of technical systems and business models. As an engineering graduate, he started his career working as a software engineer for 4 years in India and later moved to the UK to pursue and complete his Masters in Business Analytics from Aston University. He uses his free time to play recreational sports like table tennis and pool. Reading novels and strumming on his guitar are his major stress busters.

Mary Knighton

Mary Knighton

Junior Graphic Designer

Mary Knighton

Mary is MSDUK’s Junior Graphic Designer, she supports the marketing team and is based in Leicester. She has experience in the FMCG industry using her wide range of creative skills to produce aesthetic and functional designs. She is very passionate about sustainability and strives to incorporate eco-friendly and ethical practices into her personal and professional life. Mary finds the most rewarding projects are ones which utilise her creative skills to make a positive impact. This is why she joined MSDUK, she recognises supplier diversity as a catalyst for positive change, not only in large corporations but minority business by providing equal opportunities for all. When not working on design projects you can usually find her in the kitchen experimenting with new vegan recipes or exploring the the great outdoors. 

Swapnil Majumdar

Swapnil Majumdar

Corporate Relationship Manager

Swapnil Majumdar

I joined MSDUK because I’m passionate about contributing to the growth of ethnic minority businesses at a global scale. I believe I can contribute to the organisation with my stakeholder management skills developed as part of working at a commanding position at a tech startup company and in an EU funded program to develop SMEs in the GBSLEP. Adding to my experiences in engineering internships during my engineering degree and effective data visualisation & analytics learnt during my master’s degree in business analytics allows me to be strategic, analytical, and work with people from diverse & multidisciplinary backgrounds. In my free time, I enjoy weightlifting, watching Formula 1, Cooking, music and reading.

Heena Solanki

Heena Solanki

Events Manager

Heena Solanki

Heena is a seasoned professional with a passion for creating extraordinary experiences. With 15+ years of experience in the events industry she has successfully managed a diverse range of events, including corporate conferences, trade shows, galas, weddings, book launches, festivals, and concerts globally. Previously Heena has worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers and IBM in technology and with years of experience in events and hospitality sector she now wants to work with organisations with a purpose. Heena is involved in many charity projects where she leads and supports many impactful causes. She has a very busy social life but makes time for learning new skills.

Christine Kemp

Christine Kemp

Community Platform Lead

Christine Kemp

Christine is the Community Platform Lead at MSDUK. Christine has a background in managing events and building partnerships for the university sector, with previous roles focusing on business development, partnerships/sponsorship support, and internal and external management of major events. She is a people person and enjoys helping others connect to share their experience and expertise. In her spare time Christine enjoys running, pilates, exploring new places with her family and spending time outdoors as much as possible.

Vishakha Upadhyaya

Vishakha Upadhyaya

Marketing Executive

Vishakha Upadhyaya

Vishakha is our Marketing Executive. She has previously worked for marketing agencies and handled numerous non-profit events focusing on gender equality. She assists the marketing team with internal communications and external social media communications. Vishakha’s passion for championing diversity stems from her own multicultural background and her belief in the power of inclusive business practices. Born to Nepali parents and completing her education in the UK she witnessed the challenges faced by minority-owned businesses and the need for equitable opportunities. Aside from work, she is an avid traveler, a passionate foodie, and an advocate for the arts.

Quynh Dam

Quynh Dam

Event Marketing Coordinator

Quynh Dam

Quynh is the Events Marketing Coordinator at MSDUK. With three years working experience in FMCG, E-Commerce and Marketing, as part of her role at MSDUK, she is responsible for marketing campaigns for both MSDUK and ESDP Conferences. Quynh joined MSDUK driven by her strong belief in the transformative power of collective efforts to drive positive change. In her free time, she loves to bring her camera and travel to as many new places as possible!

Ian Lobo

Events Manager

Ian is the Events Manager at MSDUK. He has over 6 years of event experience in the Indian, US and European markets. He joins the MSDUK teams as a vocal advocate for inclusion and diversity across businesses. Ian has worked extensively in conceptualising and implementing multi-pronged on-ground and digital strategies for Accenture, Abin Bev, Infosys, Daimler and an array of other multi-national corporations. In his spare time, Ian is an avid reader and film enthusiast.

Vipan Koul

Vipan Koul

IT Analyst

Vipan Koul

Vipan joined MSDUK as an IT Analyst. He is passionate about getting insights from data and how these insights can help businesses grow. His role is to design and integrate efficient IT systems and reconcile needs of different teams to meet the business and technology needs. He has worked as a software engineer with Larsen and Toubro Infotech (LTI) for three years. He later moved to the UK to pursue a Master’s Degree in Data Science at the University of Bath. He plays table tennis in his spare time and has won the Bath Table Tennis Summer League in 2022.

Jenny Machary

Corporate Relationship Manager

Jenny Machary, our Corporate Relationship Manager, brings over eight years of diversified experience from both the non-profit and corporate sectors. Her strategic approach to relationship building is honed from her extensive background in business development, marketing management, and community leadership roles. With an MSc in International Business and a BA (Hons) in Marketing, Jenny adeptly applies theoretical knowledge to craft effective relationship management strategies. Beyond her professional role, Jenny is a non-executive director for a Luton-based mental health organization that supports ethnic minority women. She also holds a trustee position for a prominent local charity.

Mohammad Awais

Business Engagement Associate

Mohammad has led a consulting company that helped over 3,500 individuals and 1500 businesses nationwide through the £2 Billion kickstart scheme, for which he secured £3.4M in funding from the DWP, working with the London Mayor, helping families and ex-offenders in-partnership with Maximus alongside his active mentorship work with the Martin James Foundation for young entrepreneurs. He has also helped scale the third largest online estate agency in the UK with the founder. Mohammed has won numerous awards, including being nominated for and selected at the Aspen Rising leader fellowship.

Parth Sharma

Data & Research Analyst

Experienced data analyst with a knack for innovation and a passion for extracting actionable insights from complex datasets. Proficient in utilizing Python, SQL, and PowerBI tools to drive strategic decisionmaking. Adept at building strong client relationships and collaborating across teams. MSc. in Data Analytics, with a proven track record of optimizing processes and contributing to business growth. Excited to bring my expertise to MSDUK and make a meaningful impact.

Cynthia Ehapa

Programme Coordinator for Innovation Challenge

Cynthia recently obtained a business management (consultancy) degree that has equipped her with a strong foundation in business principles, strategic thinking and key attention to detail which is crucial in effective decision-making in her role as a Programme Coordinator for Innovation Challenge. MSDUK’s emphasis on inclusion and diversity, along with its openness to new ideas and initiatives, led her to join the organisation. MSDUK offers employees a platform for growth and a sense of belonging which is very valuable to Cynthia. Outside of work, Cynthia enjoys reading, creating music and traveling.

Jaya Bajwa

EA and Office Manager

Salma Manzoor

Senior Business Engagement Manager

Salma is the Senior Business Engagement Manager at MSDUK. She is a dynamic professional with a proven track record in cultivating strategic partnerships and fostering meaningful business relationships. With extensive expertise in sourcing diverse funding streams and developing tailored business support, Salma has played a pivotal role in creating a strong network that empowers business growth.

Meet Our Team

Our team is the powerhouse behind MSDUK. With over 70% women employees and representation from over 14 nationalities, we embrace and celebrate our diversity.

70

%

of employees are women

14

+

Nationalities on the team

Mayank Shah

Mayank Shah

Founder & CEO

READ BIO
Mayank Shah

Mayank Shah

Founder & CEO

Mayank is the Founder and CEO of MSDUK. His passion for supplier diversity started in 2002 when he started his PhD in this area and twenty years on, his enthusiasm and commitment to see ethnic minority businesses succeed and corporations be more diverse in their supply chain remains intact. He brings with him nearly 35 years of entrepreneurial experience and is considered a global thought leader on supplier diversity. Mayank is married and his lovely wife Nisha is equally committed to MSDUK helping the team as and when needed. In his free time, he loves visiting their son in Bristol and daughter in Barcelona; he loves cooking and trying to get back to painting. He does think he is very good in table tennis but that needs some testing!

Reshma Sheikh

Managing Director

READ BIO

Reshma Sheikh

Managing Director

Reshma is MSDUK’s Managing Director, and she is at the forefront of steering MSDUK towards a future marked by diversity and innovation. Reshma brings to MSDUK the experience of leading diverse commercial businesses with a global client perspective, coupled with a detailed understanding of procurement processes and practices. Throughout her professional journey, she has navigated roles in corporate, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and the non-profit sector. Demonstrating a consistent ability to achieve challenging objectives, whether leading senior leadership teams, implementing business strategies, or driving business growth. Beyond her professional role, she cherishes a spiritual connection, embracing a wellness-centered lifestyle, all while joyfully raising two children.

Jean Chawapiwa

Jean Chawapiwa

Head of Member Services

READ BIO
Jean Chawapiwa

Jean Chawapiwa

Head of Member Services

Jean is the Head of Membership Services, and previously she was Country Director for WEConnect International in South Africa, working with many of the same Corporate Members as MSDUK. Her passion for entrepreneurship development has made Jean very familiar with the global SD&I opportunities and challenges. Jean has also held leadership roles in the mining sector, her last role (2007-2012) was Vice President External Affairs and Communications for Rio Tinto. She has also sat on varied Industry Boards and Chambers of Commerce; she was Chair of Junior Achievement Africa Board from 2015 to 2019.

Bao Tieu

Bao Tieu

Head of Business and Ventures

READ BIO
Bao Tieu

Bao Tieu

Head of Business and Ventures

Bao is the Head of Business and Ventures at MSDUK. Bao Tieu has been working in enterprise education and supporting startups for over 8 years. He led the entrepreneurship team at UCL Innovation & Enterprise, making the UCL Hatchery startup incubator one of the UK’s leading university startup support programmes. Bao joined MSDUK wanting to use his skills and experience to make a difference. His work at MSDUK aims to create new opportunities for ethnic minority entrepreneurs and ventures to realise their full potential by levelling the playing field in enterprise education, support and connections that many dont have access to. Diversity will always deliver value for all stakeholders and he hopes to contribute to demonstrating this in his own small way.

Nadia Forde

Nadia Forde

Head of Operations

READ BIO
Nadia Forde

Nadia Forde

Head of Operations

Nadia is the Head of Operations with a portfolio comprising business operations, executive education programmes, marketing and communications, and events. She brings her extensive experience in projects and operations in the UK’s higher education sector. Nadia is passionate about driving improvements across business processes and practices. She enjoys working with people and supporting them in their personal and professional growth. Nadia believes that by being inclusive and working collaboratively businesses can achieve a positive impact beyond what they had thought was possible or imaginable. In her spare time, Nadia enjoys painting and, recently, gardening.

Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Senior Corporate Relationship Manager

READ BIO
Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Sheena Patel-Kotecha

Senior Corporate Relationship Manager

Sheena is the Corporate Relationship Manager at MSDUK. Sheena has vast experience in relationships management and she joined MSDUK because she wanted to be a part of something meaningful that was focused on a positive change, inclusivity whilst being sustainable, sifting the way we think, work and operate. She works closely with her corporate members to understand their needs all the while setting realistic and achievable goals. Rome wasnt built overnight and in the same manner diversifying supply chains will also require patience but with persistence. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with the family, cooking (and when permitted) travelling the world exploring new cultures and cuisines.

Karolina Jagodzinska

Karolina Jagodzinska

Senior Manager for the Innovation Hub

READ BIO
Karolina Jagodzinska

Karolina Jagodzinska

Senior Manager for the Innovation Hub

Karolina is the Programme Manager looking after the MSDUK Accelerator. As part of her role, she is responsible for nurturing and developing the MSDUK start-up community and ensuring businesses in the network grow and access new opportunities. Karolina joined MSDUK because she believes in the power of people coming together to make change happen. In her free time, Karolina likes crocheting and has recently picked up sewing. She enjoys good long films with popcorn.

Kamila Rafiqi

Kamila Rafiqi

Innovation Challenge Programme Manager

READ BIO
Kamila Rafiqi

Kamila Rafiqi

Innovation Challenge Programme Manager

Kamila is the Programme Manager for the Innovation Challenge and is part of the Innovation Hub Team at MSDUK. Kamila joined MSDUK as she strongly believes in diversity and inclusion in the workplace and wants to see equal opportunities for all. As well as wanting to see more diverse teams in businesses, Kamila wants to help and support start-ups and SMEs realise their potential to achieve long-term growth and success. She has an ambition to visit as many countries as possible, and she also enjoys long walks and has a passion for crime fiction novels.

Meghan Bradley

Marketing Manager

READ BIO

Meghan Bradley

Marketing Manager

Meghan is our Marketing Manager. She heads the marketing and looks after all things creative, ensuring that the brand remains consistent across all aspects of the organisation. Whether itis print, digital or animation, she is a multidisciplinary professional who takes projects from ideation through to completion. Meghan joined MSDUK because she believes supplier diversity is important as it helps drive competition, as well as creating equal opportunities for all, helping to reduce inequality. In her spare time Meghan likes going to restaurants and enjoying different cuisines, as well as having a passion for martial arts and all things creative.

Hinda Ibrahim

Hinda Ibrahim

Programme Manager

READ BIO
Hinda Ibrahim

Hinda Ibrahim

Programme Manager

Hinda is responsible for the delivery of high-impact executive education programmes that are designed to allow EMBs to overcome challenges, build strategic relationships, and advance business capabilities. These programmes play a pivotal role in helping EMBs leverage their supply chain strategy to gain a competitive advantage with large companies. Hinda joined MSDUK to champion its aim of diversifying the supply chain and ensuring that it is inclusive of ethnic minority businesses. Furthermore, highlighting the values of having a diverse supplier base, as it will expose companies to a diverse range of ideas and solutions. In her spare time, Hinda enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to a range of podcasts and baking.

Priyanka Chaudhary

Priyanka Chaudhary

Corporate Relationship Manager

READ BIO
Priyanka Chaudhary

Priyanka Chaudhary

Corporate Relationship Manager

Priyanka was appointed as the Member Services Associate during late 2021. She is responsible for providing support to the Members Team who manage over 100 Corporate members accounts, assisting in projects, looking after the team communication and process management, and also working and leading on the partnerships managed by the Members team. She is also responsible in supporting the business development team with EMB recruitment. She is keen on learning about the private sector development and joined MSDUK as she believes that the development of private sector can only be possible when businesses of all kinds have equal opportunity to grow. In her spare time, she like to travel to new places, meet new people, and explore new cuisines.

Shazeda Begum

Shazeda Begum

Programme Co-ordinator

READ BIO
Shazeda Begum

Shazeda Begum

Programme Co-ordinator

Shazeda is the Programme Co-ordinator for the MSDUK Accelerator. Her role is to support MSDUKs start-up community by aiding them through their development as entrepreneurs during their time on the programme. She joined MSDUK because she was passionate about working for a company that believed in making an impactful difference for the ethnic minority community and which supported the growth of this community. She hopes that she can learn more about business, the corporate world, and entrepreneurship whilst working for MSDUK. Outside of work, she loves to spend her time reading and writing, watching the latest films, and spending time in cafes.

Ashwin Ashokkumar Iyer

Business Analyst

READ BIO

Ashwin Ashokkumar Iyer

Business Analyst

Ashwin is the Business Analyst at MSDUK, some of his responsibilities include analysing the data to inform business decisions, finding technological solutions to business needs, stakeholder management, and analysing the design of technical systems and business models. As an engineering graduate, he started his career working as a software engineer for 4 years in India and later moved to the UK to pursue and complete his Masters in Business Analytics from Aston University. He uses his free time to play recreational sports like table tennis and pool. Reading novels and strumming on his guitar are his major stress busters.

Mary Knighton

Mary Knighton

Junior Graphic Designer

READ BIO
Mary Knighton

Mary Knighton

Junior Graphic Designer

Mary is MSDUK’s Junior Graphic Designer, she supports the marketing team and is based in Leicester. She has experience in the FMCG industry using her wide range of creative skills to produce aesthetic and functional designs. She is very passionate about sustainability and strives to incorporate eco-friendly and ethical practices into her personal and professional life. Mary finds the most rewarding projects are ones which utilise her creative skills to make a positive impact. This is why she joined MSDUK, she recognises supplier diversity as a catalyst for positive change, not only in large corporations but minority business by providing equal opportunities for all. When not working on design projects you can usually find her in the kitchen experimenting with new vegan recipes or exploring the the great outdoors. 

Swapnil Majumdar

Swapnil Majumdar

Corporate Relationship Manager

READ BIO
Swapnil Majumdar

Swapnil Majumdar

Corporate Relationship Manager

I joined MSDUK because I’m passionate about contributing to the growth of ethnic minority businesses at a global scale. I believe I can contribute to the organisation with my stakeholder management skills developed as part of working at a commanding position at a tech startup company and in an EU funded program to develop SMEs in the GBSLEP. Adding to my experiences in engineering internships during my engineering degree and effective data visualisation & analytics learnt during my master’s degree in business analytics allows me to be strategic, analytical, and work with people from diverse & multidisciplinary backgrounds. In my free time, I enjoy weightlifting, watching Formula 1, Cooking, music and reading.

Heena Solanki

Heena Solanki

Events Manager

READ BIO
Heena Solanki

Heena Solanki

Events Manager

Heena is a seasoned professional with a passion for creating extraordinary experiences. With 15+ years of experience in the events industry she has successfully managed a diverse range of events, including corporate conferences, trade shows, galas, weddings, book launches, festivals, and concerts globally. Previously Heena has worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers and IBM in technology and with years of experience in events and hospitality sector she now wants to work with organisations with a purpose. Heena is involved in many charity projects where she leads and supports many impactful causes. She has a very busy social life but makes time for learning new skills.

Christine Kemp

Christine Kemp

Community Platform Lead

READ BIO
Christine Kemp

Christine Kemp

Community Platform Lead

Christine is the Community Platform Lead at MSDUK. Christine has a background in managing events and building partnerships for the university sector, with previous roles focusing on business development, partnerships/sponsorship support, and internal and external management of major events. She is a people person and enjoys helping others connect to share their experience and expertise. In her spare time Christine enjoys running, pilates, exploring new places with her family and spending time outdoors as much as possible.

Vishakha Upadhyaya

Vishakha Upadhyaya

Marketing Executive

READ BIO
Vishakha Upadhyaya

Vishakha Upadhyaya

Marketing Executive

Vishakha is our Marketing Executive. She has previously worked for marketing agencies and handled numerous non-profit events focusing on gender equality. She assists the marketing team with internal communications and external social media communications. Vishakha’s passion for championing diversity stems from her own multicultural background and her belief in the power of inclusive business practices. Born to Nepali parents and completing her education in the UK she witnessed the challenges faced by minority-owned businesses and the need for equitable opportunities. Aside from work, she is an avid traveler, a passionate foodie, and an advocate for the arts.

Quynh Dam

Quynh Dam

Event Marketing Coordinator

READ BIO
Quynh Dam

Quynh Dam

Event Marketing Coordinator

Quynh is the Events Marketing Coordinator at MSDUK. With three years working experience in FMCG, E-Commerce and Marketing, as part of her role at MSDUK, she is responsible for marketing campaigns for both MSDUK and ESDP Conferences. Quynh joined MSDUK driven by her strong belief in the transformative power of collective efforts to drive positive change. In her free time, she loves to bring her camera and travel to as many new places as possible!

Ian Lobo

Events Manager

READ BIO

Ian Lobo

Events Manager

Ian is the Events Manager at MSDUK. He has over 6 years of event experience in the Indian, US and European markets. He joins the MSDUK teams as a vocal advocate for inclusion and diversity across businesses. Ian has worked extensively in conceptualising and implementing multi-pronged on-ground and digital strategies for Accenture, Abin Bev, Infosys, Daimler and an array of other multi-national corporations. In his spare time, Ian is an avid reader and film enthusiast.

Vipan Koul

Vipan Koul

IT Analyst

READ BIO
Vipan Koul

Vipan Koul

IT Analyst

Vipan joined MSDUK as an IT Analyst. He is passionate about getting insights from data and how these insights can help businesses grow. His role is to design and integrate efficient IT systems and reconcile needs of different teams to meet the business and technology needs. He has worked as a software engineer with Larsen and Toubro Infotech (LTI) for three years. He later moved to the UK to pursue a Master’s Degree in Data Science at the University of Bath. He plays table tennis in his spare time and has won the Bath Table Tennis Summer League in 2022.

Jenny Machary

Corporate Relationship Manager

READ BIO

Jenny Machary

Corporate Relationship Manager

Jenny Machary, our Corporate Relationship Manager, brings over eight years of diversified experience from both the non-profit and corporate sectors. Her strategic approach to relationship building is honed from her extensive background in business development, marketing management, and community leadership roles. With an MSc in International Business and a BA (Hons) in Marketing, Jenny adeptly applies theoretical knowledge to craft effective relationship management strategies. Beyond her professional role, Jenny is a non-executive director for a Luton-based mental health organization that supports ethnic minority women. She also holds a trustee position for a prominent local charity.

Mohammad Awais

Business Engagement Associate

READ BIO

Mohammad Awais

Business Engagement Associate

Mohammad has led a consulting company that helped over 3,500 individuals and 1500 businesses nationwide through the £2 Billion kickstart scheme, for which he secured £3.4M in funding from the DWP, working with the London Mayor, helping families and ex-offenders in-partnership with Maximus alongside his active mentorship work with the Martin James Foundation for young entrepreneurs. He has also helped scale the third largest online estate agency in the UK with the founder. Mohammed has won numerous awards, including being nominated for and selected at the Aspen Rising leader fellowship.

Parth Sharma

Data & Research Analyst

READ BIO

Parth Sharma

Data & Research Analyst

Experienced data analyst with a knack for innovation and a passion for extracting actionable insights from complex datasets. Proficient in utilizing Python, SQL, and PowerBI tools to drive strategic decisionmaking. Adept at building strong client relationships and collaborating across teams. MSc. in Data Analytics, with a proven track record of optimizing processes and contributing to business growth. Excited to bring my expertise to MSDUK and make a meaningful impact.

Cynthia Ehapa

Programme Coordinator for Innovation Challenge

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Cynthia Ehapa

Programme Coordinator for Innovation Challenge

Cynthia recently obtained a business management (consultancy) degree that has equipped her with a strong foundation in business principles, strategic thinking and key attention to detail which is crucial in effective decision-making in her role as a Programme Coordinator for Innovation Challenge. MSDUK’s emphasis on inclusion and diversity, along with its openness to new ideas and initiatives, led her to join the organisation. MSDUK offers employees a platform for growth and a sense of belonging which is very valuable to Cynthia. Outside of work, Cynthia enjoys reading, creating music and traveling.

Jaya Bajwa

EA and Office Manager

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Jaya Bajwa

EA and Office Manager

Salma Manzoor

Senior Business Engagement Manager

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Salma Manzoor

Senior Business Engagement Manager

Salma is the Senior Business Engagement Manager at MSDUK. She is a dynamic professional with a proven track record in cultivating strategic partnerships and fostering meaningful business relationships. With extensive expertise in sourcing diverse funding streams and developing tailored business support, Salma has played a pivotal role in creating a strong network that empowers business growth.

Meet our Directors

Our board of directors provides strategic direction and advice to help MSDUK achieve its vision and mission.

Matthew Glass

ENTERPRISE (BOARD CHAIR)

Ben Ngobi

Accenture

James Lloyd

CBRE

Janice Bryant Howroyd

AgileOne

Sandra Fontano

UNILIVER

Lorenzo Bell

EY

Sara Ahmad

BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB

Deaneesha Govender

INTEL

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD:

Contributing actively in providing strategic direction to MSDUK; advising on overall policy, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets and in line with MSDUK’s mission and values.

Ensuring that MSDUK’s strategy and goals comply with its Articles of Association.

Providing strategic guidance to MSDUK to help ensure financial reliance including advice on appropriate controls and procedures.

Supporting and promoting the reputation and values of MSDUK, including acting as an Ambassador for MSDUK programmes.

Meet our Directors

Our board of directors provides strategic direction and advice to help MSDUK achieve its vision and mission.

Matthew Glass

ENTERPRISE (BOARD CHAIR)

Ben Ngobi

Accenture

James Lloyd

CBRE

Janice Bryant Howroyd

AgileOne

Sandra Fontano

UNILIVER

Lorenzo Bell

EY

Sara Ahmad

BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB

Deaneesha Govender

INTEL

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD:

Contributing actively in providing strategic direction to MSDUK; advising on overall policy, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets and in line with MSDUK’s mission and values.

Ensuring that MSDUK’s strategy and goals comply with its Articles of Association.

Providing strategic guidance to MSDUK to help ensure financial reliance including advice on appropriate controls and procedures.

Supporting and promoting the reputation and values of MSDUK, including acting as an Ambassador for MSDUK programmes.

Join us in embracing
that vision of diversity,
equality, and inclusion
for every individual, in
every community!

Without diversity, life would be very boring.

Catherine Pulsifer

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    Corporate Members

    Since 2006, we have been at the forefront of driving the supplier diversity movement in the UK. Align with organisations dedicated to supplier diversity and become a part of the MSDUK community. As a member, you will connect with a network of corporate leaders who, are committed to empowering ethnic minority businesses. The companies below represent just a glimpse of our extensive corporate network.

    T. +44 (0) 116 2532520

    E. [email protected]

    A. Studio 5, Phoenix Square,
         3 Burton Street, Leicester LE1 1TB UK

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