Hon Nicola Grigg
Minister for Women

A new-look database to advance women’s progress into leadership roles has been launched to mark International Women’s Day.

Minister for Women Nicola Grigg says there is growing evidence that having qualified women on public and private boards strengthens decision-making, governance and financial performance.

“Women leaders play a critical role in a productive economy and New Zealand’s long-term growth and resilience. That’s why we are providing tools like BoardConnector to drive meaningful change to women’s representation.

“For the first time, private sector businesses across the country will have access to a pool of governance-ready leaders and aspiring leaders will be supported with training and resources to progress to governance roles.”

The proportion of female directors in NZX-listed firms has increased markedly since 2016, but women hold only 31 percent of private-sector director positions. Public sector boards and committees comprise about 50 percent women.

“Driving women into higher paid governance roles helps improve their economic empowerment, and reduces the gender pay gap and retirement savings gaps,” Ms Grigg says.

“We are growing the economy so that all New Zealanders are better placed to cope with the cost of living through more job opportunities and higher wages, and we’re pulling out all the stops to improve the economic outcomes of women and girls across New Zealand.”

Women interested in governance are encouraged to join BoardConnector and be part of building New Zealand’s future leadership capability.

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