London Stock Exchange congratulates DirectWomen on its milestone 200th corporate board seat
For nearly 20 years, DirectWomen has worked tirelessly to increase the representation of women lawyers on corporate boards. Through its various programs, DirectWomen has developed and positioned attorney leaders for corporate board service, while also serving as a resource for companies seeking qualified board candidates.
The data is clear. Boards with women outperform those without. Companies with women leaders see up to 5% higher annual returns compared to all-male boards. Women lawyers, in particular, bring a unique mix of legal expertise, strategic thinking, and risk management skills — skills that make boards stronger and make companies better. That is why DirectWomen is committed to opening doors for women lawyers to serve on corporate boards.
Today, nearly 40% of DirectWomen Board Institute alumnae have been appointed to serve on 213 corporate boards. But, despite DirectWomen’s success, there is still a long way to go to achieve our vision of women lawyers being considered equal board candidates to all other C-Suite executives. DirectWomen’s mission is more important now than ever. Too many women lawyers remain overlooked for board opportunities, and shifting that reality requires persistence, passion, and resources. DirectWomen remains committed to doing the hard work to move us closer to the future we all envision.
“As we celebrate our 200th corporate board seat, we reflect on all that DirectWomen and our distinguished alumnae have accomplished since 2007. These women have shown that their skills and talent benefit corporate bottom lines and help remove barriers for other women to serve. We encourage all companies listed on the London Stock Exchange to consider women lawyers for future director roles.”
Lily Yan Hughes
DirectWomen Chair
