Progress on Gender Balance: Third Annual Report of Women in Finance Charter Launched

Irish Funds was proud to join An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister of State Robert Troy at the Central Bank of Ireland today for the launch of the 3rd Annual Report of Ireland’s Women in Finance Charter — an important milestone in our shared commitment to driving gender balance in finance

The Taoiseach highlighted the importance of strengthening our DE&I efforts as part of a broader strategy to expand Ireland’s global footprint and influence. 

Ireland’s Women in Finance Charter, launched in 2022 and funded by Irish Funds, FSI, BPFI & Insurance Ireland and backed by Government, is a powerful industry-led initiative tackling gender imbalance in the financial sector. 

By committing to at least one measurable target and tracking progress, these firms are helping shape a more inclusive future for women in finance. 

This year’s report combines quantitative data with insights from in-depth interviews, offering a deeper look at what’s working and where we go next. 

Highlights: 

• 104 Charter signatories

• 72,000+ employees represented (56% of the sector) 

• 235 gender balance targets set, mostly at senior management level or above 

Representation Gains (vs. baseline): 

• Board: +13.1 percentage points 

• Executive Committee: +3.7 pp 

• Senior Management: +7.2 pp 

• Female CEOs now at 22.6% 

Key Enablers of Progress: 

• 56% of firms have a gender balance action plan 

• 90% offer flexible working 

Top 3 effective actions: 

1. Female leadership & development training 

2. Succession planning 

3. Sponsorship & mentoring opportunities 

Irish Funds members can start the process of signing up to the charter by contacting us at WomenInFinance@irishfunds.ie.

This is a vital initiative that will have a positive impact on current and future generations.

Find out more about how to participate.