While male-dominance in the board room continues to be a hot topic in the oil and gas industry, offshore survival training and safety skills firm, Survivex, underlines the importance of appointing directors based on merit rather than gender
Behind the closed doors of a boardroom, powerful individuals are focused on making strategic decisions, applying corporate governance and managing risk. Fundamentally these individuals must be competent professionals of the highest calibre, who bring to the table a diverse range of skills, experiences and characteristics.
However, it has long been recognised by UK and international business communities, as well as governments, that there is a distinct under representation of women on company boards. Female representation on FTSE 100 boards currently stands at 20.7% and 15.6% on FTSE 250 boards, as noted by Lord Davis – Women on boards Davies Review Annual Report 2014. The gap has been attributed to barriers including, but not limited to, family commitments, ‘the old boys club’ and stereotypes which ultimately prevent women from reaching senior decision making roles.
