Balancing Act

We have something to celebrate this International Women’s Day. Across the FTSE 350, 40 per cent of board roles are held by women.

Numbers have increased through years of targets, mentoring, and increased pressure from investors. However, there are only seven women leading FTSE 100 companies since Alison Brittain stepped down from Whitbread.  

Businesses are on-track though to meet target of 40 per cent Women in Leadership teams by end of 2025, with UK’s 50 largest private companies keeping pace. But there are still warnings that momentum must continue as the talent pipeline is fragile. 

A new study from The 30 % Club illustrates how gender diversity contributes positively to board performance. The findings show that gender balance is no longer a question of fairness, but that of effectiveness. 

Before you post your comment on embracing equity, beware.

The Gender Pay Gap bot was tired of corporate solidarity. That is why any organisation that reports their gender pay gap should think twice before using Twitter to celebrate #IWD. The bot was built  to highlight that employers’ supportive social media posts are rarely backed up by action. 

Minister for Women Maria Caulfield said: “Making sure the right people are in the top roles is not just morally right, it makes good business sense. I’m delighted to see this huge progress, years ahead of when we expected it. 

“By working together, industry and government can make sure inequality is a thing of the past - which is good for individuals, for businesses, and for our country.” 

According to The Fawcett Society, women only hold a third of the 5,200 top roles across UK society. It is not just business that women are underrepresented in.  

Act with authenticity today and be cautious of celebrating words not deeds.