WOMEN are still significantly under-represented on company boards.
As half the population is female it stands to reason that the employee and customer bases for most companies will have a high percentage of female members so female input at board level should be seen as invaluable in shaping a successful strategy.
Also there is a body of research which demonstrates how the appointment of female directors can improve a company’s performance. What should be done to redress the balance? Should quotas be introduced?
Ann Clayton, a chartered director with a number of non-executive directorships and education officer for the local branch of the Institute of Directors, said: ‘Most of the senior women I talk to don’t want to see quotas imposed as they would rather be appointed on merit than to meet a quota, but some believe that, unless quotas are introduced, change will be extremely slow.
‘There is an issue regarding how directors are selected and this needs to be addressed by existing board members, chairmen and nomination committees but what can women do to help themselves to be ready to take the opportunities when they do arise and to really add value to the board decision making process?
‘How well do we build our ‘brand’ and develop our reputation? How well do we present ourselves at the highest level?’
To address these issues Ann will be delivering the IoD one day course on ‘Women as Highly Effective Directors’ in the island on Tuesday, March 6.
This course is aimed at female directors, senior executives and aspiring directors and is open to IoD members and non-members.
The day will provide an opportunity for delegates to reflect on their own strengths; explore real issues with peers; gain access to current information and insights from successful female and male directors across the business world; consider processes that contribute to board effectiveness; and build networks with fellow directors.
This is a great opportunity for women to consider the challenges they face on their route to the board and the best way to deploy their unique strengths. Places will be limited to 12 so early booking is recommended.
For further details contact Ann Clayton on annclayton@manx.net