Asharqia Chamber discusses the role of women in family boardrooms.
Assistant Professor of Accounting and Governance at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dr. Sameera Al-Mutairi, emphasized that experience and a desire for development are among the most important qualities found in recent studies on women inheritors who have succeeded in managing their fathers', mothers', or husbands' companies after their passing.
During a workshop organized by the Asharqia Chamber and the National Center for Family Enterprises on Monday, titled "The Role of Women in Family Business Boards," Al-Mutairi stated that several studies have confirmed that successful women in managing family wealth possess several other qualities such as collaboration with employees and family members, openness to others, innovation in ideas and positive projects, and avoiding confrontational positions.
Al-Mutairi, during the remote workshop facilitated by the Director of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at the National Center for Family Enterprises, Naeem Al-Sharab, pointed out several factors influencing the role of women in family companies as owners or partners. These factors include the perception of women's capabilities, their opportunities for education, encouragement from the family to assume leadership positions in the family company, their desire for better job opportunities, their aspiration for participation, self-respect, and the values they hold towards themselves and others. Additionally, she highlighted their loyalty to the parent "company owner" and finally, women's self-leadership abilities, educational qualifications, and practical skills.
Regarding the factors related to women's educational qualifications and leadership skills, Al-Mutairi mentioned that the higher their skills, the greater their opportunities for advancement in positions. Having skills in employing modern technology, dealing with competing companies, crisis management, implementing creative initiatives, participating in international conferences, holding positions of importance within the company, and leading in their respective fields all contribute to their advancement. She also pointed out social and legal factors that either strengthen or weaken their position, such as regulations and laws, access to legal information about their rights in companies, interference from heirs in their ability to access leadership positions and marrying outside the family.
