Accelerating the Rise of More Women and Non-Binary Leaders to the Top of The Food and Drink Industry

There is a clear need to accelerate the development of female and non-binary senior managers and executives in the food and drink industry. Currently, they account for just 31.7% of board roles, and the aim of the new Accelerate Mentoring Programme is to significantly improve on this.

It is the type of affirmative action required to support the progression of senior female managers to board and top-level roles in the sector.

We are signing up leading UK food and drink manufacturers to participate in this industry-wide mentoring programme. 

An industry mentoring partnership

The Accelerate Mentoring Programme is endorsed by The Food and Drink Federation, partnering with Odgers Berndtson executive search and leading business and financial adviser Grant Thornton UK LLP.

“In our otherwise dynamic industry, it is taking too long to achieve a better gender balance. We’re confident this practical mentoring and high-level support will help many more women to reach the very top.”

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Cranswick, Müller, Nomad Foods and Nestlé are among the first manufacturers who have already pledged their backing to provide mentors and mentees to participate in The Accelerate Mentoring Programme this year.

Career impact for emerging female leaders

“The Accelerate Mentoring program is close to my heart due to the help and support I received from sponsors and mentors who had a fantastic impact on my career. In my discussions with emerging female leaders, I am constantly reminded how important these informal support networks can be,” Dame Fiona’s sentiment is shared by Trefor Griffith, Head of Food and Beverage, Grant Thornton UK LLP. 

“Quality mentoring can be a powerful tool in helping people to develop the confidence and build the networks required to move their careers forward” 

“Mentoring programmes that actively support us to address gender imbalance and accelerate career progression, are much needed within the food and beverage sector. We would like this programme to help improve gender parity at senior levels.”

Driving diversity beyond food and drink

The Accelerate Mentoring Programme is the most recent of a number of sector-wide mentoring schemes introduced by Odgers Berndtson executive search to help senior women progress to board level roles.

FIND OUT MORE

To find out more about this mentoring scheme and its launch, contact Harriott Brigden, Associate, Consumer Goods.

To find out more about any of the Odgers Berndtson mentoring programmes, contact us.