Good Practice

Optimizing Board Effectiveness with Gender Diversity: Are Quotas the Answer?

June 9, 2011

 

Private Sector Opinion 21: The author cites evidence that using quotas to increase female representation on the board can lead to tokenism, diminish the overall value of diversity on boards, affect board dynamics, and potentially lead to diluted commitments from existing female board directors. She recommends that, instead of quotas, companies should take a holistic approach toward improving board nominating criteria and processes, developing female middle and senior management talent, and ensuring positive dynamics among diverse board members.

Foreword by Nell Minow, Director of Governance Metrics International (formerly The Corporate Library).

 

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 See also: 

Diversity at the Head Table: Bringing Complementary Skills and Experiences to the Board, PSO 19