Indicator 2 - Gender Composition of governing bodies

• In your governing body dataset, use the ‘gender’ data provided for all members.
• Record the percentage of governing body members who are women, men or people of self-described gender. The total should add up to 100%.

When one gender dominates your governing body, it raises questions about whose voices are being heard and valued when it comes to shaping the future of your organisation. It also raises questions about how priorities are set and decisions are made. Representation at the top sends a powerful message: leadership is everyone’s business.

Governing bodies that reflect the diversity of the workforce and community they serve are more likely to build trust and strengthen legitimacy. They also show a genuine commitment to gender equality.

Use these prompts to consider this measure alongside other relevant data.

Compare the gender composition of your governing body with the gender composition of your organisation.

Are there differences in gender representation between your governing body and the rest of your organisation?

Look at the chair of your governing body and consider trends over time, if possible.

Is a particular gender over-represented in the chair role?

Where available, consider the intersection of gender and other attributes.

How diverse is your governing body when it comes to people facing intersecting inequalities?

Consider this measure alongside:

• Measure 1.1: Gender composition of the duty holder organisation
• Measure 1.3: Gender composition of senior leaders in the duty holder organisation.