The case for women in LG

Within the local government sector in the last five years there has been no shortage of activity designed to promote the participation of women into executive and elected leadership roles. Yet, the latest reviews have revealed that even against the backdrop of this activity there has been little improvement.

The numbers speak clearly. Women still account for less than 30% of councillors, 20% of senior managers and only 5% of CEOs in local government.

The need to recognise, value and promote women in senior management and leadership roles within local government is as great as ever. With more and more baby boomers set to retire over the next decade, the participation of women in local government will become increasingly critical. Without women in the workforce and as elected representatives, the local government sector simply does not have the depth of talent, experience and skills to take over from those who will retire.

In order for local government to strengthen policy debate and ensure local decision making is representative of the communities it supports, it needs to ensure that both management and elected representatives reflect the gender balance and diversity found within their communities.

 Women are 50% of the equation. Choosing not to work with women is like trying to progress with one hand tied behind your back.

Brian Schwartz, CEO Ernst & Young (Australia)

There is both an equity and real business case to promoting workplace diversity and increasing the participation of women in executive and elected leadership roles.

Women are professional and capable

The achievements of women are high in both the sector and the general community. Women represent a strong pool of talent and can bring a range of knowledge and skills to local government, especially at a time of high demand for expertise, increased sustainability, improved governance and greater accountability.

Women are excellent communicators

Women are widely viewed as strong communicators and collaborators. Women are not afraid to ask questions. This has been shown to impact positively on an organisation’s decision making process, broaden awareness of stakeholder interests and encourage innovative and comprehensive problem solving techniques.

Women build strong working relationships

In organisations where people are working in a highly complex environment, strong working relationships are critical to success. Women have a well-developed ability to recognise and work with other people’s perspectives and situations, develop positive working relationships and facilitate collaboration.

Women are creative

An organisation’s ability to solve problems and respond positively to unforeseen shifts in the external environment can be increased by well-balanced diversity that promotes creativity and innovation, particularly at senior levels.

Women contribute to increased return on investment

Increased female participation at executive and elected levels can enhance an organisation’s ability to respond to key shifts in the economy. A number of influential studies in the US found that a critical mass of women in senior roles made a significantly positive difference in gross sales revenue, market share and overall net operating profits.