How are India's GCCs Transforming Women's Representation in Leadership Roles?

Synopsis
As India’s Global Capability Centres flourish, a significant trend in women’s career advancement is emerging. The latest report by TeamLease Digital reveals a marked increase in female representation in senior positions, driving optimism about gender diversity in the workplace.
Key Takeaways
- Significant rise in women’s representation in GCCs.
- Diversity policies driving change in workplace dynamics.
- Gender pay gap of 16.4% persists at senior levels.
- Female participation in Tier 1 cities is 40% vs. 23.36% in Tier 2 cities.
- Positive trends indicate a shift towards equity and inclusion.
New Delhi, April 30 (NationPress) As India emerges as a leading center for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), a noteworthy trend is unfolding regarding women's career progression. A recent report by TeamLease Digital highlights a substantial increase in the representation of women in both mid and senior roles within this sector.
According to the report, GCCs are not only pivotal in driving innovation and digital transformation in India but are also at the forefront of promoting gender diversity, particularly in contractual hiring. This positive trend is largely attributed to comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, adherence to global workforce standards, and the expansion of job roles in finance, human resources, and digital operations—areas where women have historically been well-represented.
From 2023 to 2024, GCCs have demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing gender diversity, especially at mid and senior levels, with mid-level female representation increasing from 12.12% in 2023 to 13.68% in 2024, while senior levels rose from 8.14% in 2023 to 13.6% in 2024, as reported by the staffing firm.
This increase in female leadership roles signifies a positive transformation in workplace dynamics, indicating the potential for enduring structural changes. However, the report also highlights a gender pay gap at senior levels, where women earn, on average, 16.4% less than their male counterparts.
The analysis reveals a 16% disparity in pay between male and female employees, underscoring ongoing systemic inequalities and challenges that hinder women's career growth and salary negotiations. It emphasizes the necessity for sustained efforts to achieve fair compensation alongside improved representation.
In its city-wise breakdown, the report shows that female participation in GCCs remains relatively strong in Tier 1 cities, despite challenges such as high-pressure work environments and limited career growth opportunities. In these cities, women constitute nearly 40% of the workforce compared to 23.36% in Tier 2 cities.
Despite existing challenges, the findings evoke a sense of optimism, indicating a gradual narrowing of gaps in various domains and a steady rise in women entering the workforce across different sectors.