DIVERSE SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT:
Blackwell HR Solutions BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL Located in Wilmington, Delaware, Michelle Ray first launched Blackwell HR Solutions in 2019 after recognizing a need for small businesses and nonprofits to have a customizable set of human resources at their disposal. Four years later, Blackwell HR Solutions provides the full spectrum of HR consulting and advisory services to a diverse set of clients. “We kind of just hit the ground running and haven’t looked back since. From there we have grown the company tremendously. Today we have a team of 12 and we are close to reaching our one hundredth client,” Ray remarks. At Blackwell HR, the client always comes first, which is why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to any of their clients’ needs. Their process is simple, yet incredibly effective: first, an introductory consultation allows for an exploratory meeting to discuss the client’s needs; afterwards, Blackwell HR creates a proposal and action plan with recommended services and solutions; and upon approval, the plan officially goes into effect. Flexibility also comes into play in both how Blackwell HR reaches their audience and how they promote a positive work culture. For the former, the company’s clientele services span across the country, aided by virtual communications and a drive to reach everyone. For the latter, as a busy mom herself, Ray recognizes the need for a flexible work schedule. “We have created a culture that meets not only our employees’
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DELAWARE BUSINESS
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Ja nu a r y / Fe br u a r y 2024
professional needs but also their personal needs. You can work from anywhere—our office, the client’s office, your home—and I think that has naturally attracted other female leaders who want a great career, but have commitments outside of work too,” says Ray. In 2020, Ray chose to pursue a WomenBusiness Enterprise (WBE) certification to formally recognize Blackwell HR as a women-owned and operated company. “The HR industry is naturally a more female-dominated field,” explains Ray. “Throughout my career, I’ve always been mentored by women, and I am very passionate about women mentoring women specifically. I like to look through a lens of what we can do as women entrepreneurs and women business leaders to influence and instill confidence in the next generation.” For Blackwell HR, this certification sets them apart because it creates partnership opportunities with other unique suppliers: “I have found this accreditation to be highly instrumental and empowering when I collaborate and network with other diverse suppliers.” Blackwell HR also emphasizes collaboration in the office. Utilizing
a team-based model, at least three employees are assigned to each client at a time to ensure consistency in their deliverables. If other client obligations arise and require help, then this methodology allows for a smooth transition of services between Blackwell HR employees. With the HR industry constantly evolving to match the changing times, Ray is excited for what Blackwell HR’s future holds. Expansions into new demographics, industries, and offerings sit on the horizon for this diverse supplier. Ray concludes, “I hope to continue to see new connections and opportunities in the diverse supplier world and celebrate even more successes with our growing list of clients.”
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