NWBLT members champion gender equality with “Delivering Women in Leadership” Charter 2024
The North West Business Leadership Team has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting gender diversity in the workplace by developing and committing to the “Delivering Women in Leadership” Charter 2024.
Improved representation of women and increased diversity in leadership drives business success. Recognising this, NWBLT members have pledged to increase female representation on leadership teams across the region.
The Charter is one of the ways that the NWBLT supports gender equality. In 2018 the NWBLT initiated the “NWBLT Rising Stars” programme to nurture female talent and address gender inequality in the workplace. Through networking opportunities, inspirational speakers, and mentoring, the Rising Stars are empowered to pursue senior positions within their organisations and beyond.
Simone Peppi, Founder and Owner of the Pilot Group, recently appointed as the NWBLT’s first female Chair, pledged her ongoing support to the continued efforts to support women in leadership roles in the North West, saying: “I am so pleased that the NWBLT has continued its commitment to encouraging more women onto leadership teams across organisations in the North West. By providing support, mentorship, and resources to women in the North West, the NWBLT is helping to create a more diverse and dynamic leadership landscape that benefits not only businesses but the broader community as well.”
As the NWBLT continues its efforts to advocate for gender equality and support women in leadership roles, Peppi’s words serve as a reminder of the progress that has been made and the importance of continuing to push for change. The NWBLT remains steadfast in its mission to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all individuals in the North West region.
By championing the Charter and encouraging its adoption among business partners, NWBLT members aim to create a more diverse and inclusive business environment in the North West. The revised 2024 Charter states
- I recognise the targets set by the FTSE Women Leaders Review for women in FTSE 350 leadership teams and will take action to aim to collectively deliver 40% women in leadership teams across the NWBLT Membership by Dec 25.
- I will be an active ally to women, to ensure equity by recruiting (ensuring gender balanced short lists and interview panels), welcoming, supporting, actively developing/giving opportunity, promoting and equally paying women within my organisation.
- I will uphold and champion a strict zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment, prejudice and bullying. I and my leadership team are committed to fostering an inclusive environment in our organisation, empowering women to come forward and report any inappropriate behaviour without fear of reprisal. I will also commit to providing a safe work place and promote the use of a secure journey to and from work for women.
- I will take steps to ensure that women are represented on all the tables over which I have influence – both internally and externally.
- I will champion the Charter and encourage its adoption with business partners/across the supply chain.
In anticipation of International Women’s Day, a variety of NWBLT members will be sharing their commitment to gender diversity on LinkedIn. The revised 2024 Charter outlines specific targets for increasing female representation in leadership teams, promoting zero-tolerance policies towards harassment, and advocating for inclusivity both internally and externally.