Sustainability Magazine February 2024 | Page 105

“COMPANIES SEEKING TO ENHANCE THEIR STAKEHOLDER RELATIONSHIPS WILL FIND THAT WOMEN LEADERS BRING A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE AND SKILL SET ”

HEATHER CYKOSKI SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT , INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION US AND PROCESS AUTOMATION CANADA , SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
The increasing emphasis on ESG and DEI also underscores the need for more empathetic leadership , according to Cykoski . She says women often exhibit greater interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence , placing them in an advantageous position to excel in leadership roles that require understanding and addressing diverse stakeholder needs .
“ Companies seeking to enhance their stakeholder relationships will find that women leaders bring a unique perspective and skill set to foster a more inclusive and compassionate corporate culture ,” says Cykoski .
“ In essence , the evolving landscape that prioritises empathy in leadership aligns with many qualities associated with effective female leaders . This creates an opportunity for women to not only contribute meaningfully to the current discourse on ESG and DEI but also to ascend to leadership positions , including board roles , where their empathetic leadership style can drive positive change and impact .”
Positive change is welcomed , and having more women in leadership roles could transform the very nature of business – from doing well to doing good .
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