Diverse Questions for Better Solutions
A dialogue with Jennifer Reynolds, CEO of Women Corporate Directors Foundation (WCD)
by Luisana Rodríguez
WCD focuses on developing vision through the advancement of female corporate directors. Reynolds holds a 25-year career with former senior positions at Toronto Finance International (TFI), Women in Capital Markets (WCM), and Citibank Canada. “We’re a not-for-profit with 2500 members from different countries, six continents, and 65 chapters. We differ from other organizations since most of our team members are already on a corporate board and likely open for more opportunities.”
“We must ensure we’re attracting diverse female corporate members, hence why we are actively recruiting WOC and underrepresented professionals looking for board opportunities.”
But besides gender, what are women’s biggest struggles today when they’re already in the board practice? Reynolds believes that parity is one of them, especially if it boards such few women in their groups. “If women represent half of the population, that’s the number we should be looking forward to in companies.” Nordic countries are far more advanced than the U.S. regarding equality and parental policies. “Whenever you see better labor policies, that’s where they’re doing better.”
For her, inclusivity is crucial. Latino members at WCD are key. They have large chapters in Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and other countries in Latin America. “If you change what’s around the table in terms of backgrounds and experiences in life, you change questions. That allows you to explore things from a broader perspective and benefit from innovative ideas.”
When asked about best practices to improve businesses, she states that cohesion, inclusion, and a culture of solid self-evaluation in boardrooms are essential, besides the simple good management. “I think asking hard questions is necessary to move the conversation forward.” Moreover, social issues also affect boards, “we should think in a broader perspective about what’s happening out there.”
Education is a crucial mission for WCD; they want to push the boundaries of best practices on Corporate Boards. “We have an advocate role; we want to see more diverse and visionary roles faster,” says Reynolds. Even though there have been changes in the diversity of board composition, “it is never quick enough. Discussions on diversity need to be less of a ‘tick the category box mentality’ and move towards a real culture of inclusivity.”
New generations will have more opportunities available but building solid and meaningful careers is essential. Companies will look for talent with a positive impact. “Start with non-for-profit boards. Learn and create an impact on your communities. Let your experience have a voice of its own,” advises Reynolds.
Some of the goals of WCD for the future include advancing with impact, continuing to advise on best practices, growing their network, and strengthening board education pillars. Personally, Reynolds will continue to move forward in advancing talent on corporate boards, “we need to do more than just hope for changes.”
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Editor’s pick:
“If we all come from the same background, questions won’t be diverse.”
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Photo credit: Trish Minell