The Female FTSE Board Report 2017

SIR PETER GREGSON’S FOREWORD

For almost 20 years, thanks to Professor Susan Vinnicombe and her colleagues, Cranfield has been at the forefront of influential research into ‘women in leadership’. The research and ensuing debate has seen progress since the launch of our first report in 1999. However, while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to finally overcome the gender imbalance that remains in too many boardrooms. At Cranfield, diversity has long been a priority both for the organisation and for me personally as Vice- Chancellor and Chief Executive. This year the University was awarded the Athena Swan Bronze Award in recognition of our efforts. Like many other organisations though we still need to strive to achieve more and to ensure that we are able to inspire and benefit from the widest possible pool of talent. Organisations that embrace diversity, thrive. They reap benefits from creating an environment where the best talent is recruited and rewarded, regardless of gender. Creating this environment requires more than one-off initiatives, it requires a system-wide change where everyone across the organisation understands the importance of removing gendered barriers. These changes are taking time and I share the frustrations of many that they are not happening fast enough but as we see from this year’s report, we are continuing to make progress towards creating a work environment where all women can realise their potential.

Sir Peter Gregson Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Cranfield University