Article by Mary Jayne Crocker, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

The number of women in the workplace and in leadership roles is on the rise, and for good reason. Companies are realizing that women having seats at the table isn't just good for women; it’s also beneficial for business. Bridgewater is no exception. 52% of our team is made up of women, and 54% of our managers are women.

Here are a few reasons Bridgewater encourages women in the workplace and in leadership:

1. Diverse Perspectives; Innovative Solutions: 

Women bring unique perspectives and experiences to the business world, which leads to greater creativity, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving. Research consistently shows that diverse teams perform better than homogeneous ones in terms of problem-solving and decision-making. By embracing women at all levels of the organization, we tap into a wealth of ideas and approaches.

2. Enhanced Financial Performance:

Studies have also shown a positive connection between gender diversity and financial profitability. When women hold decision-making roles, companies benefit from improved risk management, better governance practices, and a focus on sustainable growth.

3. Improved Workplace Culture:

Women bring valuable qualities like empathy, collaboration, and emotional intelligence to the workplace. These attributes foster a supportive and inclusive environment where every employee feels valued, respected, and motivated.

Likewise, women leaders often bring a strong, people-first attitude to work. This empathetic leadership style helps employees focus on balancing both work and life concerns, leading to a more positive work environment with better outcomes. When employees know that their leaders truly care about them, they become more motivated to develop new, unique ideas.

As many companies are learning, women are valuable team players and strategic assets who help drive innovation, achieve financial success, and cultivate a positive company culture. By giving women more seats at the table, businesses gain a competitive edge and thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.