Today, we bring you the latest insights from the HTS DE&I (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Report. This report offers a window into current trends and efforts related to DE&I, shedding light on how organizations are striving to foster more inclusive and equitable workplaces. Stay with us for a closer look at this vital topic.

ASEAN Increases Women in Senior Management, Singapore Leads C-suite Diversity

ASEAN has boosted the presence of women in senior management from 28% to 35%, ranking third globally behind Africa (38%) and Eastern Europe (35%), according to Grant Thornton's International Business Report. Singapore is at the forefront of this change, with a 2% rise in female CEOs, a 4% increase in female COOs, and a remarkable 9% growth in female CFOs in 2020.

Notably, the number of Singaporean businesses without women in senior leadership has declined from 36% in 2017 to just 10% in 2020. Francesca Lagerberg, global leader at Grant Thornton International, stressed that proactive policies promoting diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusion are essential for real transformative change.

Gender Norms in Philippine Organizations

A case study by the Makati Business Club examines the impact of gender norms on women's career progression in Philippine organizations. Findings reveal that gender norms limit women to specific roles, hindered by caregiving responsibilities, and greater need for support. Discrepancies exist between mid-managers' beliefs and perception of peer beliefs and between C-level and mid-managers' awareness of gender DE&I policies. Awareness doesn't always translate to employee participation, suggesting communication and implementation gaps. The study highlights the need to address these issues for a more equitable workplace.

Diversity and Inclusion in Asian Businesses

Amidst growing global diversity, businesses are recognizing the importance of fostering inclusive, diverse workforces. Research demonstrates that such initiatives not only enhance a company's reputation but also drive innovation, expand talent pools, improve decision-making, and create marketing opportunities.

In Southeast Asia, a recent BCG survey reveals that only 58% of businesses have implemented diversity and inclusion initiatives, significantly lower than the global average of 96%. This underscores the need for increased efforts in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the Asian business landscape.

Jon Hayes on the Lived Experience of DE&I

Jon Hayes, global co-chair and senior partner at DLA Piper, emphasizes the importance of personal and professional components intersecting in the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) journey. Hayes, an active participant in the Dive In Festival, stresses setting the DE&I tone from the top and promoting 'micro-courtesy' for daily engagement.

He notes that Dive In has shifted DE&I discussions from "Is it relevant?" to "How is it relevant?" This evolution has encouraged curiosity and engagement, making DE&I discussions richer and more global. Hayes looks forward to continuing these conversations and advancing DE&I initiatives.

Mayer Brown Hong Kong Earns D&I Honors

Mayer Brown's Hong Kong office has been named an "Outstanding Firm in Diversity & Inclusion" at the 2023 Chambers Asia Pacific and Greater China Region Awards. Hong Tran, Asia chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee at Mayer Brown, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing its importance. The award reflects collective efforts and serves as an inspiration for continued progress in their DE&I journey. These Chambers awards commend those making strides in promoting inclusivity across various Asian jurisdictions.