Chrysler LLC Manager Receives Diversity Recognition

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 20, 2007 -- DiversityBusiness.com recently recognized Chrysler LLC Senior Manager, Jethro Joseph as one of its "Top Diversity Advocates" for 2007. Joseph was recognized for his demonstrated commitment of supplier diversity in the automotive industry.

The DiversityBusiness.com "Top Diversity Advocates" list highlights individuals who have made a significant impact on diversity issues in education, procurement, housing and employment while positively impacting the lives and economic conditions of families and communities.

"Chrysler is proud that Jethro Joseph is being recognized for his continuous efforts within the supplier diversity community," said Simon Boag, Executive Vice President - Procurement and Supply, Chrysler LLC. "His dedication has greatly contributed to the success of the Chrysler Supplier Diversity Program."

As Senior Manager - Diversity Supplier Development, Joseph is responsible for all aspects of minority supplier identification, development and growth as relates to Chrysler business opportunities. In addition, he also serves on numerous corporate and industry boards and committees while remaining active in various community endeavors.

"We like to pride ourselves on having the best program in the country," Joseph said of Chrysler's Diversity Supplier Development organization. "We are the benchmark for supplier diversity in the nation. We're very proud of that, very proud of the results we've been able to achieve."

The company sourced nearly $4 billion with minority suppliers in 2006, an increase of 43 percent since 1998. Last year, 13.5 percent of the company's purchases went to minority suppliers.

Since 1983 when the company's Diversity Supplier Development program was created, Chrysler has spent in excess of $34 billion with minority and woman-owned businesses.