Demand for tech savvy FTSE chiefs on the rise

FTSE 100 firms are adapting to the digital world by appointing more bosses with a background in technology, yet have failed to make progress when it comes to boardroom diversity, new research indicates.

The proportion of FTSE 100 chief executives with technological experience rose by 27 per cent in the last year, with 14 per cent now boasting a background in the sector, according to the annual tracker from recruiter Robert Half.

However, diversity at the top tier of FT SE comp anies appeared to make little progress, as the prop or tion of Oxbridge educated bosses rose by 2 per cent to 18 per cent, while the number of female CEOS in the 100-strong group fell from seven to six.

The average age of FT SE leaders remained unchanged at 55 years old.

Charlie Grubb, UK managing director at Robert Half Executive Search, said :“The research highlights the importance of encouraging diversity at all levels of an organisation.”