Women on the boards of Britain′s top 200 companies

Abstract

Summarizes the findings of a 1993 report by Ashridge Management Group on women on the boards of the top 200 companies in Britain. Compares the results with a similar survey done in 1989. Finds that, although the number of women directors has doubled since 1989, they still represent only 4 per cent of all directorship appointments in the 200 companies surveyed, despite more women being recruited. More women are becoming non‐executive directors but the old‐boy network is still very much in operation. Discusses the issues which seem to account for the slow progress in women′s career ladders. Suggests an action list to enable companies to offer opportunities to women to gain skills and experience necessary to become directors.