The business events industry is a dynamic sector that connects people and drives innovation globally. However, despite its female-dominated workforce, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Recognizing this critical challenge, Business Events Sydney (BESydney) and the PCMA Foundation have released a comprehensive two-part global study titled “Advancing Women In Business Events.”
The study, initiated in January 2024, quantifies the gender gap in leadership within the industry. It aims to provide insights into the multifaceted barriers women face at personal, organizational, and societal levels. The study’s findings reveal that while the industry is predominantly female, very few reach the highest echelons of management, highlighting a concerning disparity.
To address this issue, the study explores several personal barriers women often encounter, such as self-limiting beliefs and a reluctance to negotiate aggressively for promotions and pay increases. The report recommends addressing these barriers by encouraging women to advocate for themselves and seek support from mentors and sponsors.
Organizational culture also plays a significant role in fostering gender equity. The study recommends that organizations commit to gender equity from the top down, creating an inclusive corporate culture where women feel supported and have equal opportunities for advancement. Specific recommendations include implementing flexible work arrangements, addressing unconscious bias, and providing leadership training for women.
Societal factors also influence gender equity within the business events industry. The study acknowledges that the broader social context in which organizations operate affects women’s career progression. To address these external factors, the report recommends supporting initiatives that promote gender equality in education, addressing stereotypes and biases in media and society, and advocating for policies that support working parents.
BESydney CEO, Lyn Lewis-Smith, emphasizes the crucial role industry leaders have in spearheading change, especially in light of growing ESG and DEI considerations. PCMA and CEMA President & CEO, Sherrif Karamat, highlights the industry’s unique position to challenge the status quo and implement visionary strategies that eliminate barriers for women.
The “Advancing Women In Business Events” study is a groundbreaking effort to understand and dismantle the barriers to women’s leadership in the business events industry. By implementing the recommended actions, the industry can move closer to a future where leadership reflects the diversity of its participants, fostering innovation and organizational health.
