Work

Appointments, Pay and Performance in UK Boardrooms by Gender

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: This article uses UK data to examine issues regarding the scarcity of women in boardroom positions. The article examines appointments, pay and any associated productivity effects deriving from increased diversity. Evidence of gender‐bias in the appointment of women as non‐executive directors is found together with mixed evidence of discrimination in wages or fees paid. However, the article finds no support for the argument that gender diverse boards enhance corporate performance. Proposals in favour of greater board diversity may be best structured around the moral value of diversity, rather than with reference to an expectation of improved company performance.

Source: The Economic Journal

DOI: 10.1111/ecoj.12102

Authors: Ian Gregory‐Smith, Brian G.M. Main, Charles A. O’Reilly

Institutions: University of Sheffield, University of Edinburgh, Stanford University

Language: English

Topic: Gender Diversity and Inequality

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Reduced inequalities, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: green

Funder: Economic and Social Research Council