Andy Briggs, Group CEO of Phoenix Group and the UK Government Business Champion for Older Workers comments on the FTSE Women Leaders Review report on the FTSE 350 boardroom gender balance target being hit three years early:

“It’s imperative that our businesses are reflective of the world in which they operate, which is why it is welcome news that the UK has cemented itself as a world-leader for women’s representation on top company boards.

“At Phoenix Group our board has a 50:50 gender split and as a business we’re keen to ensure we keep making progress to ensure talented women continue to rise into leadership and senior executive roles. We’re also making great strides on gender balance for our senior leaders, with women accounting for nearly 40% of colleagues at this level. 

“To ensure we maintain and develop this balance further we have put policies in place which make it easier for us to recruit, retain and retrain colleagues. This includes flexible working as standard from day one, paid carers’ leave, and menopause support for colleagues and managers. Our hiring strategy includes all job shortlists are gender balanced, along with neutral language in all job descriptions.”