Diversity is often referred to as just gender balance and we fully agree on the importance of appointing more successful business women in leadership positions. However, we also believe in factoring in other points of diversity, such as geographic origin (nationality, which then influences where one gets business experience), religion, race, sexual orientation and number of years of experience.

The value in demographic diversity is in accessing the resulting diversity of thought. Organisations that cultivate diversity of thought and harness the power of unique perspectives are achieving a competitive advantage through increased innovation and creativity.

An interesting thought we would like to add is that difference in background is also important: did you grow up in a family where your parents – or one of them – worked in a corporate environment? Or as a teacher? In a hospital? Or in military services? An owned company or shop? Or in farming? All these variations will have influenced you and your potential to gain an education up to degree level and develop yourself as a successful business leader. We are convinced that an inclusive culture where every person is listened to, feels respected and is valued, can unleash hidden qualities and will drive every individual to achieve their full potential.

Signium has signed the AESC Diversity Pledge and commits to develop and deepen actions within our firm.