Nearly half of board roles and 35 per cent of leadership roles in FTSE350 companies are now held by women, as the UK leads the way with a record number of female leaders.
Top British companies are continuing to lead the way for gender equality in boardrooms, with more than 60 per cent of firms nearing the 40 per cent board representation target ahead of schedule, according to the FTSE Women Leaders Review 2025.
The report, backed by the UK Government and sponsored by Lloyds Banking Group and KPMG LLP, highlights the UK’s global leadership in driving gender diversity in corporate leadership. It underscores the economic and social benefits of gender-balanced leadership and the government’s Plan for Change, aimed at fostering inclusive growth.
The target of 40 per cent women’s representation in boardrooms by the end of 2025 is on track, demonstrating significant progress in gender diversity at the highest levels of business. This continued momentum reflects the commitment of UK companies to promoting inclusion and equal opportunities.
Increasing female leadership could unlock billions in economic growth, authors say, as diverse leadership teams drive innovation, improve decision-making, and enhance business performance. Ensuring more women are represented in senior positions is not just about fairness but also about securing long-term economic benefits for the UK.
it will take really effective public and private sector collaboration to drive the level of change required for things to be truly equal
The UK is setting a global benchmark for corporate gender diversity, surpassing many international peers in achieving boardroom gender balance. This success positions the UK as a leader in fostering a more inclusive corporate culture that other nations can follow.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “The UK is leading the charge for gender equality in boardrooms, but we cannot rest on our laurels. We must break down the barriers that stop many women being represented in decision-making roles, so that top talent reaches the highest levels of leadership in businesses driving economic growth across Britain.”
Gangotri Bhatt, Director of Skills Lab, UK & EMEA for FDM Group, said: “Diversity in the tech sector, in particular, has seen some notable changes over the past year, with an increased awareness and commitment around equality, diversity and inclusion issues. However, despite the improvements and rise in women in leadership roles, there are still significant challenges and minority representation at the top is still low.
“it will take really effective public and private sector collaboration to drive the level of change required for things to be truly equal.”
“Gender equality is still an issue, as well as supporting disability and neurodivergence, so while it’s important to celebrate the progress, it’s equally important to acknowledge there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure everyone can thrive.
“For women considering a career in tech and looking to become the next leaders of the industry, it’s important to pursue a passion such as web development or software engineering as that will drive success, look for networking opportunities to build connections and mentors, and believe in themselves. ”
We need diversity in all of its forms to combat the challenges that our businesses, governments and ultimately society face
Wendy Stonefield, London Hub Executive for AND Digital, made the point that there are systemic challenges that remain difficult to shift and need societal and governmental direction, and then consistent dedication to driving the required change through.
She added: “While the rise in the number of FTSE 350 female leaders is encouraging, it will take really effective public and private sector collaboration to drive the level of change required for things to be truly equal. I am now unlikely to see it in the lifetime of my career, but I remain hopeful that we are on the journey and surrounded by many inspirational, ambitious young women as well as many allies.”
“We need diversity in all of its forms to combat the challenges that our businesses, governments and ultimately society face.”
More than half of UK SMEs have embraced diversity
How companies can improve gender equality
