A new study by Accenture reveals that women business leaders possess significantly more technology expertise than their male counterparts, despite representing only 40% of leadership roles. The research indicates that one-third of female leaders have technology proficiency, compared to just 18% of male leaders.
The report also highlights a growing trend in the UK’s boardrooms, with one in four FTSE 100 board-level executives now proficient in technology—a 12% increase over the past three years. This surge positions Britain’s boardrooms as the most technologically savvy in the world. The demand for tech skills, particularly in areas like data and artificial intelligence (AI), is on the rise amid the ongoing AI boom, making technology expertise increasingly valuable in C-suite roles.
Accenture’s research, which analyzed the professional backgrounds of CEOs and board members across the world’s largest 2,500 companies, found that over 23% of UK business leaders are now proficient in technology. This marks a rise from 19% in 2023 and includes experience in senior roles at technology companies, responsibilities for technology decisions, or exposure to fields such as AI, cloud computing, data management, or cybersecurity.
Emma Kendrew, Accenture’s technology lead in the UK, commented on the findings, stating, “It’s hugely encouraging to see the experience women in technology are bringing to leadership teams today. With organizations focused on long-term growth, diverse teams bring in a range of experiences that drive innovation. Emerging technology, like AI, can benefit all sectors and regions in the UK.”
The UK leads Europe in technology skills among its most senior executives, with France following closely, having grown its technology skills base by six percentage points to 20% this year. Furthermore, nearly 19% of CEOs in FTSE 100 companies now have technology experience, underscoring the critical role of technology in transforming the UK’s listed businesses.
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