IoD: FTSE diversity progress welcome, but not ‘job done’


Responding to news that a third of FTSE 100 board members are now women, Charlotte Valeur, Chair of the Institute of Directors, said:

“It’s right to celebrate the progress made, showing that focussing the spotlight on diversity can change the behaviour of big companies. However, this is not a case of ‘job done’. There is still a glaring lack of diversity at executive level and among chairs, and firms must continue to strive towards a more inclusive culture or they risk slipping backwards.

“While female board participation may have increased, we’re still on the journey towards businesses better reflecting their workforces and customers. As the Parker Review made all too clear this week, improvements have been even harder to come by in other areas. The Hampton-Alexander review has shown that companies are capable of change, but the work is just beginning.”