According to a recent global study, the proportion of women in leadership positions worldwide has declined since the onset of the pandemic.

Globally, the representation of women in the leadership pipeline has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. Senior vice president roles now have a 14% representation of women, down from 18% in 2019, and vice president roles have a 16% representation, down from 19% in 2019. These positions serve as crucial stepping stones to C-suite and executive board positions.

The report highlights that if organizations were truly making substantial progress in promoting women to top leadership roles, the percentage of female executives would be higher.

Advancing women

Additionally, the study reveals that only 39% of surveyed businesses consider advancing more women into leadership roles as a top formal business priority, which is 6% lower than the global average of 45%.

Respondents identify the pandemic as the most significant disruption affecting women, leaving a lasting impact. Geopolitical unrest is ranked as the second most concerning factor, both globally and locally.

Lindsay Kaplan, Chief’s co-founder and chief brand officer, emphasized the underrepresentation of women across various workforce levels. She stated that companies must prioritize gender diversity throughout their organizations, implementing policies, investments, and a supportive culture that genuinely empowers women.

This comprehensive approach would bring about transformative outcomes, including workplace equity for everyone and stronger, more resilient businesses.

The study findings indicate that women currently hold 13% of C-suite positions and represent 14% of board-level positions, while junior professional/specialist roles have a 41% representation of women.