The idea of introducing mandatory quotas for female representation on corporate boards raises fierce debate and heightens emotions in both sexes. A great example is the recent discussion in the biggest Czech discussion group focused on HR on the LinkedIn network - "HR News - News from HR and Management ". The discussion, which you can read here, recorded a total of 183 comments. The strongest voice against the quotas came from a man.
However, it would be very simplistic and untrue if we claimed that men are generally against the quotas while women are for the quotas. Many women publicly oppose the quotas because they are convinced that they can reach top posts by themselves. On the other hand, some men support the quotas. One of them is Dean Royles, HR director of Leeds Teaching Hospitals, located in Leeds in northern England, employing 14,000 people.
In an article on the HR Magazine website, Dean Royles explains that initially he was shocked by the idea of possible quotas. He completely rejected all discrimination, including positive discrimination. Gradually, however, he came across a lot of evidence proving that gender-balanced leadership facilitates better decision making, productivity, services and higher ROI.
Most female directors are in health care, but it's still not enough
Women are represented quite strongly in leading roles in the British health services sector (as in the Czech Republic, see Women on boards in the Czech Republic). In the NHS, 42% of executive directors, 32% of financial directors and 68% of HR directors are female. However, according to Dean Royles, this is still not a sufficient reason to ban quotas.
Opponents of the quotas frequently argue that it is necessary to find the most suitable person, regardless of gender. They are afraid that the quotas might force them to promote incapable workers. They argue that selecting managers should be a business matter and not about political correctness. Dean Royles, however, asks: "Why should a quota mean we would have to recruit an incapable woman? Young women are doing better at school and better in universities. There are plenty of capable and talented women in middle management positions (and already in senior management positions). There is absolutely no reason to suggest incapable women would be appointed through having a quota system. But a quota would definitely increase the proportion of women on boards."
Royles adds that he remains a supporter of leadership development, improving corporate culture and promoting family-friendly measures. He commends the recent enactment of shared maternity leave. He says that the quotas should be given the same chance to prove themselves in practice.
What do you think? Is there a Czech man out there who is in favour of introducing quotas?
Read more about quotas for female representation on corporate boards in our section on Women in leadership.
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