Helle Bank Jorgensen, Competent Boards Founder and CEO, was featured by Board Stewardship in their Women’ Day Special
Corporate governance is evolving, and at its forefront are women who are redefining leadership, resilience, and ethical stewardship. Despite progress, the presence of women in boardrooms is still a work in progress – not due to a lack of competence but because systemic barriers remain. However, the tide is turning.
“More women in leadership create momentum, strengthen governance, and broaden priorities. To drive responsible corporate stewardship, we need a mindset shift towards long-term, ethical leadership; strength in numbers to normalise diverse decision-making; active sponsorship to elevate more women; accountability to demand transparency; and cultural change to challenge outdated leadership norms. The goal isn’t just more women in leadership – it’s ensuring they reshape corporate stewardship for stronger, more resilient businesses that serve future generations. Leadership must evolve, not conform.
Policies set the foundation for inclusion, but culture drives change. Companies must move beyond checkboxes and actively remove barriers. That means fair performance reviews, promotions based on results – not visibility – and intentional leadership pipelines. Mentorship is helpful, but sponsorship is critical. Women need advocates who propel them into decision-making roles.”
-Helle Bank Jorgensen, Competent Boards Founder and CEO