This report provides an overview of the business case for diversity, and examines the “leaking pipeline” of New Zealand women’s path to governance and executive management in light of a range of local and international research. Three areas of focus are examined in detail: unconscious bias against women in the workplace, and its influence on women’s recruitment and career progression; human resource processes relating to women’s leaving the workforce for career breaks, and their subsequent re-entry; and flexible working arrangements to address individual and business needs of the workforce.

The report recommends a three-pronged approach combining changes to workplace structures and policies, addressing issues embedded within workplace cultures, and systemic organisational strategies implemented over time by committed leadership.