Report uncovers transparency, accountability struggles with diverse leadership
Nearly half of employees in New Zealand don't think their leadership is as diverse as the workforce, according to a new report, which highlighted leadership challenges in terms of diversity.
The report, released by Diversity Works NZ, received 594 responses to examine the state of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in New Zealand's workplaces.
It found that 11% of the respondents strongly disagreed and 36% disagreed when asked if they think their organisation's leadership is as diverse as the workforce.
On the other hand, only a third of respondents agreed, with 21% agreeing and 13% strongly agreeing with the sentiment.
Source: New Zealand Workplace Diversity Survey 2024
Maretha Smit, chief executive of Diversity Works NZ, said leadership teams themselves "should be diverse and role model inclusive practices."
Leadership challenges in diversity
But diversity challenges in leadership are not limited to representation, as the report also uncovered transparency and accountability barriers in the workplace.
More than a third of the respondents said they are unaware of how senior leaders are supported in learning about DEI (36.8%) and unsure about the accountability measures for senior leaders' DEI commitments (39.1%).
Smit said the findings indicate a lack of transparency and communication, as well as a gap in formal accountability systems within organisations.
According to the chief executive, leaders who do not understand how DEI works will "fail to develop the next generation of diverse talent."
"Furthermore, leadership accountability for DEI outcomes can be challenging to enforce when leaders are not adequately prepared for this role," she said in a statement.
These findings also come despite various actions leaders take to support DEI, such as communicating support and endorsing a DEI plan or strategy, according to the report.
Source: New Zealand Workplace Diversity Survey 2024
They are also held accountable through a "robust complaints process" and having DEI included within their job descriptions.
Source: New Zealand Workplace Diversity Survey 2024
"The effectiveness of leaders in advancing the DEI agenda depends on their commitment, combined with the technical expertise and capability required to drive meaningful progress," Smit said.