At a glance
Key findings from the independent report ‘‘Gender representation in the meat sector 2020’’
Changing perceptions of the sector
There is an embedded perception that work in the meat sector is more physically demanding than other sectors. There are also strong, negative preconceptions about the working environment. Despite the existence of a wide variety of jobs in a range of environments, many people outside the sector are only aware of a narrow selection of roles, usually limited to farming and butchery.
Moving inclusion up the agenda
Inclusion is still seen as an optional ‘‘nice to have’’, rather than a key part of business strategy in many meat businesses. Where there is a drive for change, it often comes from outside the sector in the form of customer pressure or the appointment of a senior leader from a more inclusive sector.
Tackling the broken career ladder
There are ‘‘broken rungs’’ in the career ladder (i. e. key career steps where men are more likely to progress than women). Job design, combined with stereotyped perceptions about what makes a good operational leader, discourage women from pursuing senior operational roles. Women in the meat sector find it easier to pursue careers in marketing, finance, HR, R&D and quality roles — yet these roles are rarely career stepping stones for the most senior roles.
Strengthening networks and creating visible role models
The meat sector has fewer senior women than other sectors, meaning there are fewer opportunities for women with leadership roles to network together. The absence of senior female role models in the sector can send the message that senior roles are not available or suited to women.
Genderproofing working practices and patterns
Workplace flexibility is an essential enabler for creating an inclusive workplace. The Covid19 pandemic has challenged perceptions about what is possible, and greater workplace flexibility is becoming the norm. Creating working models that support women and men with family responsibilities is one of the most important actions that businesses can take to enable women to progress into leadership roles.