The research, led by de-biased recruitment experts Applied, tracked the gender split of 2,260 candidates hired into senior-level roles by 102 international companies (with at least 10 employees) between 2017 and 2021. Seniority was defined by job titles which included the term ‘senior’, ‘head’, ‘lead’, ‘director’ or ‘chief’.
Instead of using CVs or cover letters, all participants secured their roles following an anonymised recruitment process that focused on identifying and testing the specific skills they needed for the job.
Candidates answered questions designed to find out how they would fare in role-specific scenarios. Answers were then anonymised, randomised and scored by hiring managers – with candidates scoring highest making it through to the next round. Next, candidates undertook cognitive ability tests and structured interviews. Questions which focused on ‘culture fit’ or personal interests were not permitted.
This is a 68 per cent increase on the global average, where women account for just 31 per cent of senior positions.
Men accounted for 36 per cent of successful senior hires in the study, whilst one per cent identified as non-binary, and 11 per cent declined to disclose their gender.
In the study, female candidates had a particularly high success rate in the publishing industry, where they accounted for an overwhelming 81 per cent of senior hires. Women also dominated in education (gaining 67 per cent of top roles), health (65 per cent) and the third sector (61 per cent).
“But women are still scarce in senior roles. Not only is this doing a disservice to women with a wealth of talent and expertise to offer, but it’s actively holding companies back. Organisations with women in senior roles outperform companies run by men by almost 40 per cent. Women’s absence from senior teams is also driving the gender pay gap, which sees women earn two-thirds less than men.”
“The solution is simple. In honour of International Women’s Day, we dug into the data to find out how skills-based hiring impacts the gender balance of senior hires. It didn’t surprise me to discover that when hiring is anonymised and women are tested for skills alone they come out on top, successfully landing over half of the senior roles we studied.”
“Women have so much to offer and so much to gain from sitting on senior teams. We need women in these positions to act as role models and advocates for other women rising through the ranks. It’s time we empowered female leaders to seize the positions they deserve by making hiring fairer and more objective.”
July
26julAll DayTessy's Brunches Presents: Engage HER
26/07/2025 All Day(GMT+00:00)
Stanley Stephenson Lounge
Crystal Palace Football Club, Holmesdale Road, London, SE25 6PU
Engage Her – July 26, 2025 Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive
Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community of women. Through interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and engaging discussions, attendees will have the chance to share experiences, learn from one another, and grow together. This event aims to create a welcoming environment where women can support each other in their personal and professional journeys.
Highlights:
• Engaging workshops and interactive sessions encouraging active participation.
• Networking opportunities to expand personal and professional connections.
• Panel discussions with industry leaders sharing insights and experiences.
• Community-building activities to foster lasting relationships.
Mark your calendars for Engage Her on July 26, 2025, a vibrant event designed to connect and inspire women. Participate in interactive workshops, network with like-minded individuals, and join discussions with industry leaders. Build meaningful relationships and grow within a supportive community. Engage Her is your opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive together. Don’t miss out—register now!
Indulge in a sumptuous spread of delicious treats crafted to tantalize your taste buds.
Tickets are available for £50 and the event is open to all women. Let’s come together and support each other as we navigate the challenges of life. We can’t wait to see you there!
Tessy’s Brunches (www.tessysbrunches) is dedicated to creating a platform where unseen women become visible through networking and mentoring opportunities. Our mission is not only about recognising women but understanding and addressing their unique challenges.
Our aims are rooted in three core principles: Empower, Engage, and Elevate. We seek to empower women by inspiring personal growth and self-discovery. We aim to engage by fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community. Finally, we strive to elevate by enhancing professional development and personal fulfilment. Through these pillars, we are dedicated to helping women overcome barriers, realize their potential, and achieve both personal and professional success.
#TessysBrunches #WomenPower #CelebrateWomen #InspiringChange #EmpowerHER #EngageHER #ElevateHER