Page 54 - Powerlist 2020

OPINION
FTSE players must

change the game

Tom Shropshire was one of the members of the Parker Review Committee,
which looked at diversity – or the lack thereof – in corporate Britain. Three years
after their groundbreaking findings, he is still waiting for action

hree years. That is the amount of resignation and rationalisation are on That was against a background at
time that has elapsed since the the horizon. the end of 2016 where over 50 per
Tfirst publication of the “Report “Beyond One by ’21” seemed cent of FTSE 100 boards were all white
into the Ethnic Diversity of UK Boards” achievable in 2016, but as we approach (53 to be exact), and where they were
by Sir John Parker and the Parker 2020, it still looks far out of reach. not all white, of the 90 total non-white
Review Committee in 2016. Two years is Just to remind us of what the individuals, only 16 were UK citizens
the amount of time remaining for FTSE Parker Review asked of corporate (about 1.5% of the 1,000-plus board
companies to respond. Britain, specifically FTSE companies: seats). Seven companies accounted for
We are beyond the halfway point. at least one (just one) non-white 40 per cent of the total (36 people) –
We are in the zone where one of three director by 2021 for the FTSE 100, meaning 93 companies accounted for
things happen – plans turn into action, and at least one (just one) non-white the remaining 60 per cent (54 people).
scrambling starts or resignation sets director by 2024 for the FTSE 250. These numbers were stark, and the
in and a deep rationalisation exercise The Review Committee also made need and case for change were clear –
begins. My hopeful nature wants me recommendations about developing at least to us.
to believe actions are being taken, the internal pipeline and asked for Upon publication of the Report, while
but my experience to date tells me enhanced transparency around there was some positive reception,
that scrambling is more likely, and diversity policies and reporting. there was also an exasperated voice

54 Powerlist 2020