Gender diversity in the boardroom: Do women directors help improve firm performance?

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Plenty of research indicates that organizations can become more competitive if women are better represented on corporate boards. Evidence suggests superior financial performance in terms of stronger sales and asset growth and higher returns on equity are attainable. More efficient risk management is also widely documented. Indications are that female executives have a similarly positive effect on performance and risk in firms operating within the Chinese automotive industry. However, low overall representation of women executives in the sector means that their impact remains limited. Companies and policy makers must therefore embrace initiatives that encourage greater gender diversity in the boardroom within a country still influenced to some extent by its patriarchal past.

The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations.

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.