Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. proudly announced that Laura Blackmer, President of Dealer Sales, has once again been named a 2024 Inclusive Channel Leader by CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company. This recognition highlights executives who are committed to promoting inclusivity and driving positive change across the IT channel. This is Blackmer’s second consecutive year earning this prestigious title.
“Laura has been instrumental in advancing our Employee Resource Groups, such as the ‘Step Forward’ program, which equips women with leadership skills and encourages all employees to be agents of change,” said Sam Errigo, President and CEO of Konica Minolta. “Her leadership also paved the way for the ‘Step Together’ initiative, fostering collaboration and inspiration among women in the office technology sector. We are delighted to see Laura receive this well-deserved honor.”
The CRN Inclusive Channel Leaders list celebrates individuals who are passionate about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within their organizations, the channel, and the wider technology industry. Blackmer’s leadership in these areas reflects Konica Minolta’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of respect, innovation, and belonging.
“At Konica Minolta, we prioritize creating an environment where every voice is heard,” said Blackmer. “Inclusion is the driving force behind our innovation and growth. I am truly honored to be named an Inclusive Channel Leader once again by CRN. This recognition affirms our dedication to embedding diversity and inclusion into every aspect of our business.”
Laura Blackmer’s accolades extend beyond this recognition. She has been named “Best Female Executive” seven times at The Cannata Report’s Frank Awards and is listed among Tiger Paw Software’s Top 100 Influencers in the managed print industry for two consecutive years. Additionally, Blackmer has been featured on CRN’s Women of the Channel list six times and is a four-time Channel Chief. She was also included in CRN’s inaugural Inclusive Channel Leaders list in 2023 and serves on the Colorado State University Business Leadership Council.
Jennifer Follett, Vice President of U.S. Content and Executive Editor at CRN, praised the honorees: “We are proud to recognize this year’s leaders for their unwavering dedication to inclusivity within the channel. Their transparent leadership fosters environments where employees can thrive, and their businesses can excel. Congratulations to these remarkable individuals. We look forward to learning from their example and seeing what they achieve in the future.”
