Michael Garner isn’t just New York City’s first-ever chief business diversity officer – he’s also a “change agent,” working to make the business, policy and culture of the city more inclusive. In the nearly three years he’s held the role, Garner oversees the city’s Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises program. Under his leadership, the city has surpassed its MWBE-utilization goal to have 30% of all municipal contracts be awarded to MWBEs, welcoming diversity in city business. Previously, Garner was the first chief diversity and inclusion officer for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. He spoke to City & State ahead of its Diversity & Procurement Summit on Thursday, where he is to deliver keynote remarks. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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