The Port of New Orleans launched a series of roundtable discussions to promote professional services opportunities to local and small architectural and engineering companies as part of a business outreach initiative.
“We want to ensure our procurement process is transparent and clear so as many qualified businesses as possible have the opportunity to work with the Port,” said Brandy D. Christian, Port of New Orleans President and CEO. “We want to be inclusive of companies large and small, firms we have worked with in the past and those new to Port NOLA. With an ever-larger pool of prospective professional services providers, the Port is best able to select the right teams for Port projects.”
During the roundtable discussions, Port NOLA representatives share information related to the engineering department’s objectives and best practices for a successful procurement process. Detailed information on upcoming projects is also provided. “Our goal is to engage local and small businesses in the region and create awareness of the opportunities to bid with the Port,” said Tiffany Carter, Port of New Orleans Director of Procurement. “We value the increased competition in this marketplace and growing capabilities and experiences of our local, small business community members.”
Invited companies are encouraged to share their perceptions, whether positive or negative, of doing business with Port NOLA. Roundtable organizers say the goal is for companies to leave the discussion with a stronger understanding of the Port’s needs, short-term and long-term investment opportunities, as well as an increased understanding of the Port’s proactive efforts to engage new providers and build valuable professional relationships.