News on 20 October 2000
Nearly a quarter of managers today are women. Considering this is an
increase from only 8% in 1990, it is a great step, according to a survey
released by the Institute of Management and Remuneration Economics.
Women managers' pay also rose by 6.4% compared to the 5.4% rise their
male colleagues received. Despite this, the average woman manager earns
around £33,000 - about £3,000 less than her male colleagues.
This year is the first time in the survey's 27-year history that at least
one woman sits on a board in each of the ten industry groups. The survey
also shows that female managers hold at least ten per cent of the top
jobs in all industries, except engineering.
Christine Hayhurst, director of public affairs at the Institute of Management
said: "It is encouraging to see that women's talents are being recognised
and rewarded in Britain's businesses and boardrooms. Women now make up
half of today's workforce and female managers have almost redressed pay
inequalities. However, women are under half way to fulfilling their quota
of management roles, of which they hold 22 per cent."
The prime minister's wife Cherie Booth predicts progress towards a more
equal working environment over the next five years.
