The CIMA Foundation says “disaster don’t discriminate, but people do”. The journey to gender parity remains obstructed by a myriad of factors including culture, bias, misconceptions and attitudes. But if the Paris 2024 Olympics is any indication of the possibility, we may have hope that someday, there will be parity between the genders across the finance function, if not the rest of the enterprise, all the way to the C-suite and the Board. 

The 2024 International Women’s Day theme of inclusion may be an appropriate starting point in the journey towards parity. Joining us on PodChats for FutureCFO is Marisa Azman, regional chief financial officer for ENGIE South East Asia, for her perspective on the topic.

1.       Looking at the finance function today, how have women participation across the function evolved?

a.       What are the three most common barriers faced by women in corporate finance?

2.       Is gender diversity a real cause for concern in the finance function? 

3.       In which areas are women least visible/prominent and why? (unconscious bias)

4.       Our topic is Filling the Gender Gap. In your experience where are women finance leaders excelling, and how should these successful professionals hone the next generation of women professional leaders?

5.       Can you share an inspirational story of a woman leader in finance?

6.       Going forward, how can/should organisations measure progress towards gender equality?