CBI responds to ‘Women on Boards’ review

The CBI, who speaks on behalf of 190,000 businesses of all sizes and sectors, has responded to data from the Hampton-Alexander review, which looks into increasing the number of women on boards and in senior leadership positions across the FTSE 350.

CBI Director-General, Carolyn Fairbairn, said: “Businesses are building on last year’s progress and continuing to increase diversity in the boardroom.  It’s particularly good news that the target of women holding a third of board positions is likely to be met ahead of schedule.

“The benefits of a diverse boardroom have been proven many times, from improved decision making to increased profits. If all male boards are to become a thing of the past, firms must not take their foot of the pedal.

“But while firms are speeding ahead in the boardroom, they are making less progress on the executive pipeline. We are still seeing too few women in senior leadership positions, whether as CEO or running divisions.

“Heading into 2020, all firms should ensure they have diverse shortlists and that they’re doing everything possible to support people from all walks of life in their careers, from ground floor to boardroom.”

For further information visit the CBI website.