“To me, the Hermosa Difference means mining with a purpose—and putting community development at the heart of everything we do.”
– Marisa Raymond, Principal Local Procurement
At South32 Hermosa, local procurement will play a critical role in connecting the project’s development with the people and businesses of Santa Cruz County. The procurement team is responsible for identifying local vendors and suppliers who can support a wide range of needs—from site services and construction to office supplies and transportation—as Hermosa continues to grow.
By intentionally seeking out qualified local businesses, the team helps ensure that the economic benefits of the project stay in the region. Every local contract awarded strengthens Hermosa’s supply chain while creating real opportunities for families and small businesses across the county.
This work goes beyond traditional procurement—it’s a community-centered approach that reduces transportation emissions, supports vendors with sustainable practices, and strengthens local supply chains. It’s all part of building trust with stakeholders and stimulating lasting regional growth.
Through partnerships with chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and tribal representatives, Hermosa is aligning its procurement strategy with local priorities. The goal is to meet the needs of the project while uplifting the capabilities of the surrounding community, creating shared value.
One of the ways South32 is doing this is through its Vendor Readiness Program—a workshop series that prepares local and tribal businesses to navigate the procurement process. From onboarding and insurance requirements to bid submissions and contract execution, the program gives small businesses the tools and insight they need to grow with the project.
Team members, like Principal of Local Procurement Marisa Raymond, are passionate about this work and bring valuable personal perspectives. Having grown up in a rural mining community herself, Marisa knows how transformative it can be when companies invest in the people around them.
By taking a people-first approach to procurement, South32 Hermosa is building more than a supply chain—it’s helping build a stronger, more inclusive economy for Santa Cruz County.