KPMG reference Bridge Group research in their recent report on 'Uncovering social mobility in the boardroom'

 

KPMG reference Bridge Group research in their recent report on 'Uncovering social mobility in the boardroom'

‘Uncovering social mobility in the boardroom’ report from KPMG focuses on the first analysis of their recent survey on the socio-economic backgrounds (SEB) of their board members. The survey was split into two areas of focus (1) assessing the socio-economic backgrounds and (2) looking at whether SEB of board members is being monitored on boards and recruitment processes.

Key findings included:

  • there is a lack of socio-economic diversity in boardrooms, with just 15% of respondents coming from working class backgrounds;

  • social mobility is not currently prioritised in board recruitment or nomination committees;

  • networks and mentors are powerful enablers for reaching the boardroom;

  • board members are comfortable sharing their socio-economic backgrounds but there is still some hesitation.

In it’s report, KPMG uses key references from the work conducted by the Bridge Group and suggests our research on socio-economic background and career progression in financial services as further reading in the area.

Bridge Group CEO, Nik Miller, also contributed to the KPMG report with the following quote:

“We now have a strong evidence base to indicate that socio-economic background has a strong effect on access to, and progression in, the workplace – often stronger than gender or ethnicity. That is not to say we advocate for diversity ’top-trumps’, but to create equity in the workplace and to ensure organisations are accessing the widest range of talent. Overlooking this vital characteristic is to have a gaping hole in our understanding and practice. Data is key to informing an evidence base for change, and progressive organisations are harnessing their data insights to drive diversity and performance, and are contributing to creating a more equitable society”

Read more about 'Uncovering social mobility in the boardroom'.

Relevant blog posts exploring the topic further include: Timothy Copnell’s , Associate Partner at KPMG, blog on Social mobility in the boardroom: The questions not being asked, and Krishna Grenville-Goble, Director at KPMG, blog on Practical steps for nomination committees to improve social mobility and Improving socio-economic representation in the boardroom can unlock talent.

 
Guest User