Breaking Barriers: Achieving Boardroom Diversity

We placed a female CSO as Head of Scientific Committee, enhancing board diversity and leadership.

The Brief

Barrington James was tasked with finding a new Head of Scientific Committee to replace an outgoing board member. The ideal candidate required current or recent R&D leadership experience in neuroscience, without any conflicting engagements. Additionally, our client sought to build greater diversity within their board of directors. This brief presented unique challenges: R&D leadership in pharmaceutical companies has historically been male-dominated, and leaders with up-to-date R&D experience in neuroscience were often conflicted by ongoing commitments.

The Solution

Leveraging our extensive networks within the pharmaceutical industry and CNS (central nervous system) research, Barrington James identified a long list of over 70 potential candidates, most of whom would bring diversity to the boardroom. After three weeks of interviews, we recommended a shortlist of six candidates, with four advancing to final interviews. Ultimately, the client selected a female Chief Scientific Officer currently working in a non-conflicting area of CNS. This is her first board appointment, and feedback from the chairman highlighted that she brings “energy, up-to-date know-how, leadership, and some brilliant new ideas to our board.”

Our Executive Solutions

Our Board and Executive Search services connect organizations with exceptional leaders. Our experienced team specializes in board and executive recruitment, identifying top-tier talent to drive organizational growth and sustainability. With our industry knowledge and extensive network, we help shape the future of your organization by curating shortlists of candidates who align with your values and goals, streamlining the recruitment process, and securing top-level talent for your success.

Strengthen Your Leadership Team with Barrington James

Ready to diversify and strengthen your pharmaceutical leadership team? Learn from our successful case study and partner with Barrington James Executive Search. We specialize in connecting organizations with top-tier leaders. Contact us now to discuss your C-level talent needs and drive success together.

Visit us at: https://barringtonjames.com/executive-and-board