New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has appointed Magalie Austin as senior advisor and director of the Mayor’s Office of Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises.
She takes over from Jonnell Doris, who was named commissioner for Small Business Services last week.
In her new role, Austin will oversee the city's MWBE programs. She will ensure that MWBEs have access to procurement opportunities as well as to services that can mitigate economic impacts from COVID-19.
“MWBEs are the backbone of New York City’s economy,” de Blasio said. “I am confident Maggie will continue on the important work we’ve done to ensure our MWBEs have what they need to thrive and that they are recognized for the essential role they play across the five boroughs.”
Austin previously served as chief diversity and industry relations officer for the city’s Department of Design and Construction. At DDC, she oversaw a large increase in the department's MWBE utilization.
“MWBE’s play a vital role in the city’s economy and I will work every day to ensure that we provide them opportunities to succeed,” Austin said. “Their success makes New York City a stronger city, a fairer city, and a better city.”
She is an alumna of St. John's University and holds a Juris Doctor from Tulane University School of Law.
“Maggie is a true champion for MWBEs with a proven track record of successfully increasing MWBE participation in city contracting while at DDC,” Doris said. “She knows and understands the most pressing challenges faced by MWBEs, and will continue to work tirelessly to advocate and address their needs.”
Last week, the mayor appointed Gregg Bishop as senior advisor for Small Business COVID-19 Recovery. Doris took over his role as SBS commissioner.
Doris was at the office since it was created by the mayor in 2016. Since then, the city has awarded $13.2 billion in contracts to MWBEs. In fiscal 2019, the city awarded $3.8 billion in contracts to MWBEs through mayoral and non-mayoral agencies. Non-mayoral agencies include the Economic Development Corp. and the Department of Education.
Last November, the city increased its target for contracts awarded to certified MWBEs by $5 billion to $25 billion by fiscal 2025. In June, the city had hit its goal of certifying 9,000 MWBEs, well ahead of its deadline.
