A landmark study by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), “The Missing Women Study”, has revealed a troubling gender gap in the UK’s public relations profession. Nearly 3,910 female PR practitioners in England and Wales have either left the industry during mid-career or failed to advance to senior leadership roles.
The data shows that while 66% of PR practitioners below director level are women, only 46% of senior roles are held by women.
cipr.co.uk
Other key findings include:
- 63.5% of women surveyed reporting gender-based discrimination or harassment.
- Over 55% feeling they do not have equal advancement opportunities compared to male colleagues.
- Widespread reporting of burnout, lack of flexible working, and structural obstacles that deepen as career levels rise.
GDM’s Commitment: Equality and Respect at Every Level
At Grandiose Digital Media (GDM), we believe in a workplace where every person is respected, supported, and empowered regardless of gender. According to GDM’s values, respect for employees at all costs is not just rhetoric but a foundational pillar. GDM’s “About Us” page emphasises the company’s mission to build a future of “greater opportunity and equality for all”.
We recognise that the “Missing Women” crisis is more than just numbers-it reflects lost potential, diversity of thought and leadership, and organisational resilience. By ensuring that gender equality is reflected in recruitment, leadership development, work-life balance policies, flexible working and mentorship, GDM aims to be part of the solution.
Why This Matters for the Industry
The implications of the CIPR study are significant:
Talent Drain: Losing nearly 4,000 experienced professionals weakens the depth of expertise in the sector.
Leadership Imbalance: The disparity at senior levels contributes to fewer role models, mentorship opportunities, and inclusive decision-making.
Operational & Cultural Challenges: Burnout, inflexible working arrangements, and sociocultural expectations (e.g. caregiving) disproportionately affect women, reducing retention unless addressed.
Looking Forward
The CIPR report suggests several remedies that the industry must take seriously: leadership progression programmes, flexible work patterns without penalty, strong support through life-stage transitions, cultural change, and structural reform.
cipr.co.uk
GDM is committed to aligning with these strategies, embedding them in its policies and practices so that every employee—regardless of gender—can succeed and flourish.
Related:
Read more about the services & values of GDM; About Us page. About GDM
By spotlighting both the problem and proactive solutions, this article aims to raise awareness and encourage more organisations to follow GDM’s example-because true progress depends on respecting every individual, regardless of gender.
