Trudeau Government Sets New Norm For Executive Leadership (Media Release)

Gender parity in new cabinet signals significant step forward for women in leadership, says Alex Johnston, Executive Director, Catalyst Canada

TORONTO (November 4, 2015)—Catalyst applauds Canada’s new federal government on the selection of a record proportion of women to its new cabinet. This historic move, naming equal numbers of women and men to key cabinet portfolios, signals an important step forward for women in leadership.

“This new government has established a new norm for executive leadership in Canada,” says Alex Johnston, Executive Director, Catalyst Canada. “Its first cabinet, composed of a record proportion of women leaders, represents an endorsement of the importance of gender diversity at executive levels.”

“We are optimistic that closing the gender gap is possible, and the new government is leading by example,” says Deborah Gillis, President & CEO of Catalyst. “This move is significant because it reflects the gender makeup of Canada, and the varying life and business perspectives that women bring to the table.”

Catalyst research repeatedly shows that diversity on executive teams is correlated with increased financial performance, more innovation, and higher group performance, further highlighting that what’s good for women is good for men, business, communities, and indeed, good for the world.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY
Alex Johnston and other members of Catalyst Canada are available to further comment on Canada’s new federal Cabinet. Please contact:
Francine Beck
+1 416 725 3710
[email protected]

ABOUT CATALYST
Founded in 1962, Catalyst is the leading nonprofit organization expanding opportunities for women and business. With operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, India, Australia, and Japan, and more than 800 member organizations, Catalyst is the trusted resource for research, information, and advice about women at work. Catalyst annually honors exemplary organizational initiatives that promote women’s advancement with the Catalyst Award.