Executive-level gender parity must be fast-tracked, says IMI manager

While gender parity at entry level is relatively common, balance at leadership level remains a work in progress, says Cyrilla Costello of IMI

Cyrilla Costello, senior client development manager at the Irish Management Institute.

The case for gender-balanced business leadership is very compelling, says Cyrilla Costello, senior client development manager at the Irish Management Institute.

Among the business benefits from diversity, she cites enhanced profitability, increased social responsibility and better meeting customer needs.

“While gender parity at entry level is relatively common across many industries, achieving balance at leadership level remains a work in progress for many organisations,” Cyrilla said. “As we mark International Women’s Day, it is crucial that business leaders across Ireland redouble their efforts to realise equality at leadership level and make diversity a business imperative.” 

Irish businesses have made significant progress in gender balance at board level in recent years. According to data from the Government initiative, Balance for Better Business, female representation on the Boards of ISEQ listed companies have increased by 21% over the past five years.

However, significant gaps remain in key decision-making roles, with only three female CEOs and two chairs across all publicly listed companies.

“To support change, it is crucial that organisations provide the supports and programmes necessary for women to advance in their organisation,” Cyrilla said. “Numerous barriers impede women's progression to senior leadership positions, including unconscious bias, lack of mentorship and inflexible work cultures.

“Addressing these barriers requires a multi-faceted approach that involves challenging traditional mindsets, implementing inclusive policies, and providing tailored development programs to support women's career advancement.” 

More than 160 organisations and 2,000 female executives have participated in IMI’s Network Mentor Program since its launch in 2016. IMI is also a founding member of the Irish chapter of the 30% Club, which aims to deliver at least 30% female representation at board and senior leadership level.

In terms of industry sectors, the IMI notes that the construction sector faces both a critical skills gap and a major diversity issue, with women making up only 9% of the overall construction workforce in Ireland.

To address this, IMI has collaborated with the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) with coaching, developing leadership tools and techniques to help support more women access senior construction and engineering roles.

Meanwhile, packaging firm Smurfit Kappa has been a notable leader in promoting the progress of its female employees. Its RISE programme, developed in partnership with the IMI, was awarded the best Learning & Development programme at the CIPD HR Awards for its results in advancing women.

“While more work remains ahead, it is encouraging to see the progress across Irish business in realising more diverse and inclusive leadership,” says Cyrilla Costello. “By taking decisive action now, organisations can accelerate change and better grow female leaders.”