Prioritising purpose over profit, women are increasingly taking a leading role in transforming the food system for good. It is estimated that women occupy anywhere between 73 to 86% of entry and mid-level roles in purpose-driven sectors, research by global nonprofit Catalyst shows.
In the agrifood sector, investments used by female-founded companies are 63% more likely to create positive results than in male-led businesses, with every dollar yielding 78 cents in revenue for female-founded companies compared to 31 cents for male-led firms.
While the benefits are clear, the food industry is failing to capitalise on the value of female participation. In 2020, representation of women and other historically marginalised groups in C-suite positions stood at a meagre 35%, compared to a 47% average in the consumer-staples (non-food) sector. This is a key challenge to be solved.
Empowering, involving, and connecting women in the food system has never been more critical to safeguarding the future of the food.
Who are these women, how can we support them, and what benefits will this unlock? We discussed these topics at the Fi Europe 2023's Women's Networking Breakfast. Watch the video below.
Speakers:
- Lia Marlen Schmokel, Associate Partner, Marvelous
- Taylor Quinn, Executive Director, Tailored Food
- Melanie Rutten-Sülz, Country Manager, Solidaridad Germany
- Jaana Kleinschmit, General Manager & Germany Country Manager, ADM
- Moderator: Niamh Michail, Head of Publishing, Fi Europe
