Conclusions

Abstract

The representation of women on boards remains dismally low globally. However, research increasingly suggests that board diversity, and specifically the presence of a critical mass of female directors, is associated with a range of positive organisational outcomes (Bilimoria, 2000; Galbreath, 2011; Konrad, Kramer, & Erkut, 2008). As outlined in the opening chapter, gender diversity in the boardroom can provide a more balanced reflection of the firm’s customer base (Konrad et al., 2008), ward against groupthink (Maznevski, 1994), challenge conventionally held views, bring fresh perspectives leading to more balanced decision making (Bilimoria, 2000), and increase the thoroughness of decisions (Konrad et al., 2008).