Ludwigshafen, Germany — BASF SE has announced a new target for women in leadership roles.
The company is actively seeking to increase the number of women in leadership roles for the BASF Group worldwide. and for the leadership levels overall, to 30 percent by 2030.
“We want to better incorporate women and their abilities in the leadership team of BASF," said Martin Brudermüller, chairman of the board of executive directors of Ludwigshafen-based BASF.
A previous target of 22-24 percent by 2021, set in 2015, was achieved ahead of schedule by the end of 2019.
A better gender balance in the leadership team will help BASF to become an attractive employer for everyone, the company said. To make that happen, BASF will focus in particular on the three leadership levels below the board of executive directors. As multipliers, these leaders can make a significant contribution to further developing a diverse corporate culture.
As of Dec. 31, the proportion of women in leadership roles at these levels was 15.8 percent.
The new target applies in all countries where the company operates and all leaders are required to pursue the new target.
“We know the value of diverse ways of thinking and working. Different perspectives result in innovative ideas and solutions for our customers,” Brudermüller said.
Early recognition, nomination and development of talented female employees as well as long-term succession planning will contribute to reaching the goal. The majority of leadership positions at BASF are filled internally. BASF said it supports young leaders by offering individualized mentoring and training programs.