Search Partners, Harvey Nash, NQ International, Profile Search and Selection, Robert Walters and Straits Talent recently joined forces with five other executive search firms (Egon Zehnder, Heidrick & Struggles, Korn Ferry, Russell Reynolds Associates and Spencer Stuart) in committing to prescribe to best practices for board appointments supportive of gender diversity.
Magnus Bocker, Chairman of Singapore’s Diversity Action Committee, DAC said, “I am pleased to see that more members from the Executive Search community will support greater boardroom diversity and participation of women. Using executive search services for recruiting board directors is not just for the large companies but those desiring to bring best talents to the top table in addition to the existing recruitment channels. These active partnerships between companies and search firms support an increased understanding of the business benefits of diversity. DAC looks forward to a continuous increase of women directors.”
The Statement of Good Practice in Executive Search for Board Directors was launched on 15 January 2015 and sets out a comprehensive process from the start of the search assignment to appointment of director and post-appointment follow-up. It advocates that search firms first consider the existing strengths of the board and define the complementary capabilities required to serve the corporate strategy. It encourages boards to widen candidate pool to include top calibre and diverse candidates, including women, and candidates with relevant experience in emerging industries and areas of specialisation.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
