Women’s representation on SET boards ‘lagging’

16 January 2008

Engineering companies have less women in their board rooms than other industries, according to a report by the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science Engineering and Technology (SET). Currently SET boardrooms are lagging behind other FTSE 100 companies with the level of male directors at 92%, compared to 87.5% in non-SET firms.

The report also fleshes out guidelines, issued in conjunction with Cranfield School of Management’s annual Female FTSE report, designed to address the under representation.

Written by Dr Val Singh, from Cranfield, the good practice recommendations are aimed at transforming boardroom culture and provide advice for developing female talent.

Annette Williams, director of the UKRC, said: ‘As the report clearly states there are too few women on SET boards.

‘This report identifies practical steps which companies can take, to start to change the culture and make up of SET boardrooms now and in the future.’

Williams also said: ‘Firm commitment is needed from the top of British industry to ensure that women are able to progress to their full potential in science, engineering and technology and that their talent is not wasted.’

Sir John Parker, Chair of National Grid and a participant in the project, described the research as ‘thoughtful’ and ‘timely’.