Recent study reveals decline in number of female CEOs in UK by 2024

A new study highlights a worrying decline in the number of women in senior management positions in the UK in 2024. While notable progress has been made over the years, recent statistics show a worrying decline in the presence of women at the top of companies . This article examines the alarming figures, the potential causes of this decline and the impact on diversity in the business world.

A worrying reversal of progress made

In recent years, the UK has seen a notable increase in female representation on company boards, with the FTSE 100 seeing the proportion of women reach almost 40%. However, in 2024, only 3.75% positions of president and CEO of CAC 40 companies are occupied by women, illustrating a troubling step backwards.

Key positions still inaccessible for women

A clear lack of women in springboard positions towards general management is also observed. For example, financial directors only represent 25% positions in the UK, although this is the second most common route to senior executive functions. This imbalance in middle management positions prevents many women from climbing the corporate hierarchy.

A lack of digital diversity

The digital sector, fundamental to the modern economy, also suffers from a persistent imbalance. Between the pandemic and the end of 2023, the female presence in this field in Europe is timid, reaching only 25.2%. There is a dire need for incentives to encourage more women to consider a career in tech.

Impact on the economy and future prospects

The absence of women in positions of power deprives companies of diverse perspectives, which can harm their overall performance. With less than 5% of women at the head of companies around the world, it is much more than a question of equity; it is a challenge for innovation and efficiency.

Insufficient income to support financial independence

Furthermore, more than two million low-income women in the UK are unable to achieve a “living wage”. This adds an additional obstacle for these women who aspire to leadership roles, thus entrenching socio-economic inequalities.

How to reverse the trend?

To address this imbalance, it is essential to adopt proactive and integrated measures at all levels of the company. Mentoring programs for young female professionals, increased support for STEM education, and progressive leadership policies can all help reverse the current trend.