Women in Business 2026
Executive Summary
Women in Business 2026 – The Value of Visibility highlights how gender equality continues to be a powerful driver of growth, innovation, and long-term business performance in the mid-market sector. Based on research among thousands of business leaders worldwide, the report demonstrates that organizations investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) are better positioned to attract talent, drive innovation, and achieve stronger financial results.
While significant progress has been made in advancing gender diversity in leadership, the report also emphasizes that continued action is needed. The visibility of women in leadership positions remains a critical factor in inspiring future leaders, fostering ambition, and creating more inclusive workplaces.
Ultimately, the report reinforces that gender equality is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative that contributes to sustainable growth and organizational success.
Key Highlights
Gender Diversity Drives Business Performance
Organizations that actively invest in gender equality and implement new diversity initiatives report stronger business outcomes. Among these organizations, 73% achieved revenue growth exceeding 5%, while 56.2% reported workforce growth of more than 5%.
Visible Female Leadership Matters
The visibility of women in leadership positions helps build confidence, inspire ambition, and attract and retain talent. As a result, gender diversity has become an increasingly important component of talent management and employer branding strategies.
Slight Decline in Women in Senior Management
The proportion of women in senior management globally has experienced a slight decline to 32.9%. Despite this decrease, the long-term trend remains positive, with gender parity in senior leadership projected to be achieved around 2051.
Gender Equality Remains a Strategic Priority
More than 92% of mid-market organizations have implemented DE&I initiatives, while over three-quarters continue to prioritize gender equality as part of their business strategy. This demonstrates that inclusion has become a core element of modern organizational success.
Talent Attraction and Retention Are Key Drivers
Gender equality plays an increasingly important role in attracting and retaining talent. 91.9% of business leaders indicate that an organization's commitment to gender equality influences their choice of employer, highlighting the growing importance of inclusive workplace cultures.
Women in Business 2026 (ENG)
Women in Business 2026 – The Value of Visibility demonstrates that gender equality directly contributes to growth, innovation, and stronger business performance. Organizations that invest in diverse and visible leadership achieve better results and are more successful in attracting talent and investors. At the same time, the slight decline in the proportion of women in senior management (32.9%) highlights that continued commitment is essential to achieving sustainable progress.