Survey of Women Leaders and Workplace Climate

This report presents findings from a survey conducted with over 2,300 women leaders globally, examining the progress and challenges faced by women in leadership roles over the past five years. The document outlines key barriers to advancement, including unconscious bias, exclusion from networks, and the need for sponsorship by male leaders. It highlights that while high performance and sponsorship remain critical, women are increasingly relying on a broader mix of personal behaviors and external support. The report details that nearly half of the respondents perceive progress as stalling or reversing, yet many feel positive about their personal impact within their organizations. It emphasizes the importance of proactive career management, strong networks, and early exposure to leadership roles. Additionally, the findings indicate that recognition of the value of P&L assignments has grown, with many women identifying such roles as foundational to their career development. The report concludes with recommendations for organizations to enhance gender diversity in leadership.