Independent Professional Management has been a member and supporter of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) since we launched our company in 1992. Our founder and CEO, Sheila McIlnay knew the importance of accessing the resources and expertise that organizations like WBENC provide their members. “Most new business owners initially think of local resources like the Chamber of Commerce. While this is a great option, there are global organizations like WBENC that can be a major catalyst for women-owned businesses to succeed. I have always been grateful for the benefits I receive from being a certified Women-owned Business,” McIlany said.
This summer McIlnay is joining thousands of women-leaders at WBENC’s signature event, the National Conference & Business Fair, held in Baltimore, MD. The conference provides networking opportunities, educational sessions and celebrations. The attendees filling the conference include leadership positions in women-owned businesses, supplier diversity professionals, and entrepreneurs.
McIlnay is excited to participate again this year in 1:1MatchMaker sessions. “I think of it like speed-dating for business. Procurement or supplier diversity attendees get to select vendors they would like to meet with and we come together for a quick “how can we help you” chat. I have met some of my best longtime clients through MatchMaker sessions,” McIlnay said.
The benefits of working with IPM will be McIlnay’s primary message at WBENC this year, especially with the growing need for contract and contingent labor management. A variety of industries are now aware of the benefit of using a proven company like IPM to manage their contract labor pool, including both the pre-identified/self-sourced resources and the recruited talent pool. IPM’s years of experience in high-end labor management makes us an attractive partner; our Women-owned Business certification is an added bonus for any government or diversity program.