Chandra Vasser’s Vision for DEI at Nissan Americas

Chandra Vasser holds the esteemed titles of vice president and chief diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) officer for Nissan Americas, as well as president of the Nissan Foundation.

Since her appointment to these roles in November 2021, Vasser has been instrumental in fostering a culture of productivity, respect and safety for all employees. Vasser drives Nissan’s DEI strategies and develops partnerships that advance the company’s commitment to diversity with employees, customers and the community.

Vasser also oversees Nissan’s supplier diversity function and manages the company’s corporate philanthropic efforts focused on education, humanitarian support and environmental initiatives. Under Vasser’s leadership, the Nissan Foundation annually awards more than $1 million in grants to nonprofits dedicated to breaking down societal barriers and building inclusive communities.

During her 20 years at Nissan, Vasser has held numerous leadership roles, most recently serving as director of finance. In this capacity, she oversaw activities in marketing and sales, aftersales, sales audit, and cost of quality areas. Her extensive experience also includes leadership roles in finance for Nissan Motor Acceptance Company (NMAC), remarketing and purchasing. In addition, Vasser served as director of purchasing, services & support and administration, which also encompassed supplier diversity.

Nissan’s recognition as a Top Company for WBEs by DiversityComm Magazine is a testament to the automotive company’s commitment to supplier diversity. Vasser expresses deep gratitude for this acknowledgment, attributing it to the collective effort of Nissan executives and the team that work to further DEI within the organization.

“This recognition highlights the unwavering dedication and hard work of everyone involved in advancing diversity within the company,” Vasser says.

The transition of Nissan’s supplier diversity department from purchasing to DEI has broadened the scope of diversity efforts at Nissan. Vasser emphasizes that this move has elevated the visibility of supplier diversity within the organization, reflecting a stronger commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in procurement. Nissan’s integrated DEI strategy aligns with the company’s overall corporate strategy and encompasses employees, customers, suppliers, dealers and community partners. This alignment underscores Nissan’s dedication to advancing DEI across all business aspects and maintaining a commitment to diversity and social responsibility in the communities where it operates.

Nissan’s Supplier Diversity Development and Mentoring Program ensures supplier readiness for business with the company. The program offers a framework and tools for evaluating and improving the performance of disadvantaged businesses. Vasser highlights the importance of supporting suppliers with the necessary tools for success and acknowledges that a diversified supply chain contributes to strong and sustainable businesses. The program aims to build relationships and optimize collaborations between underutilized businesses and Nissan, serving as a catalyst for the development and growth of diverse suppliers in the supply chain.

As the automobile industry undergoes rapid transformation, many women suppliers in the indirect soft commodities sector can benefit from strategic business alliances or joint ventures. Vasser advises women business owners to research automotive industry trends, identify solid partners and develop new skills and capabilities to prepare for these changes.

“The evolving business model for many original equipment manufacturers, like Nissan will require suppliers to have vision, commitment and capability to compete in this new arena.” Vasser says. “Manufacturing and advanced technology present attractive opportunities for entrepreneurs willing to adapt and thrive in this changing landscape.”

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This article was originally published on diversitycomm.net.