Inslee named Laka Fernandez director of the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises.

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Governor Jay Inslee has announced the appointment of Leka Fernandez as Director of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE). Fernandez replaces Lisa van der Lugt, who has been director since 2018.

OMWBE is responsible for expanding statewide efforts to increase access, remove barriers, and include minority and women-owned businesses in public spending opportunities. The Minority and Women’s Business Enterprise Program includes a comprehensive certification process, small business development support services, as well as compliance, accountability, reporting, and assistance to public agencies in meeting their various spending goals. The agency leads the Governor’s Subcabinet on Business Diversity and works with state agencies and institutions of higher education to promote fair and inclusive procurement practices. OMWBE works with small businesses of color and women-owned businesses and veterans to obtain more government contracts.

Fernandez has experience leading high-performing teams, conducting legal analysis, managing grants and contracts, and overseeing performance and budget programs. Prior to this appointment, Fernandez was the Southwest Coast Regional Director with the Employment Security Department. She oversaw the agency’s and WorkSource programs. Prior to her time at ESD, Fernandez owned and operated a business that subcontracted workforce development grants to the State of Michigan.

“Leka’s leadership, professional experience and background make her an ideal director for OMWBE. Her client-focused approach will serve our agencies and small businesses well,” said Inslee. “OMWBE is instrumental in helping small businesses owned by people of color and empowering women and government agencies to work together to provide inclusive and equitable business opportunities. We are grateful for Lisa’s leadership with OMWBE throughout the state since 2018. We are also grateful to Sarah Erdman, who serves as Executive Director. I want.”

“I am thrilled to be a part of OMWBE’s mission and vision as we create a fairer process for small businesses of color, women and veteran-owned businesses to participate in government contracts,” said Fernandez. “I’m grateful for the incredible work that’s already been done and I’m excited about where we’re going as an agency and as a region.”

Leka holds a master’s degree in business administration from Lewis & Clark College, Northwestern Law School and Willamette University.

Fernandes’ appointment is effective September 12.

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