For the first time in nearly two decades, the number of women in C-suite roles at companies took a dip in 2023. Women now hold just 11.8% of top executive positions, down from 12.2% in 2022, according to a new study by S&P Global Market Intelligence. This drop marks the first decline since S&P began tracking this data in 2006. The decline is raising eyebrows, especially since women’s representation in corporate leadership had been on a steady rise for years. Researchers are calling this drop a potential “turning point” and pointing to a “waning focus on diversity initiatives” as a possible reason. Even mentions of diversity and inclusion on S&P 500 earnings calls have plummeted to their lowest since 2012.
“Leading the race towards achieving her goals."
The study also highlighted how the push for gender parity in leadership has slowed, with projections for equal representation now pushed back to as late as 2072. It’s a stark reminder that while progress was being made, it’s not guaranteed to continue without ongoing effort.
So, what’s next? With the momentum slowing, it’s clear the fight for gender parity in leadership is far from over. For more information click here