Singh, Chanvi; Potter, Rachael; Dollard, Maureen; Cropley, David

Industry 4.0 marked a significant shift towards a new era of digitalisation, characterised by the advent of smart technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud computing. Initially coined to describe the next phase of industrial innovation starting around 2011, the term has since expanded to capture a broader spectrum of digital transformation across various sectors. This transformation is reshaping not just our technological infrastructure but also the fabric of how businesses globally adapt and compete. Delving into this era, it's crucial to examine their implications for gender equality in leadership, particularly within evolving workplace dynamics.

Legislative advances in gender pay transparency have highlighted the need for wider organisational evolution within the digital landscape of Industry 4.0. Insights from women leaders pinpoint the complex dynamics between digitalisation and gender equality, highlighting both barriers and avenues for transformative change. The current research examines how digital transformation can surmount gender barriers, complementing legislative efforts to address the root causes of inequality and promote greater equity.

The study’s findings reveal that digital transformation and new ways of working offer a paradoxical mix of barriers and enablers to gender equality. On one hand, the rapid pace of digital change demands specialised skills and introduces challenges in work-life balance, potentially exacerbating gender disparities. On the other hand, these new ways of working, facilitated by digital technology, provide unprecedented opportunities for flexible work arrangements and dismantling traditional hierarchical structures, which could catalyse progress towards gender equity.

Integrating gender considerations into the strategies for navigating digital transformation is crucial. This research underscores the need for businesses to not only adapt to but also embrace these new ways of working as a mechanism for advancing gender equality. By aligning with legislative efforts and leveraging the potential of digitalised workplaces, organisations can foster an inclusive culture that supports diversity in leadership.

This research exploration demonstrates the relevance of gender equality initiatives within the context of Industry 4.0 and new ways of working. It calls for a concerted effort among stakeholders to utilise digital transformation as a catalyst for promoting inclusive leadership practices, ensuring that the advancements in technology go hand in hand with progress in gender equity. The insights offered aim to guide policymakers, organisational leaders, and practitioners in creating more equitable and dynamic workplaces for the future.

Analyse the Impact of Digital Transformation on Gender Equality in Leadership Roles: Attendees will be able to critically evaluate how digitalisation in Industry 4.0 affects gender disparities in leadership, employing current research findings to identify key barriers and opportunities for fostering gender inclusivity.

Apply Strategies for Enhancing Diversity and Inclusion within Organisational Practices: Participants will learn to apply evidence-based strategies and frameworks to their own organisations, enhancing diversity and inclusion. This includes developing actionable plans that address challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era to promote gender equality.

Reflect on Organisational Change for Gender Equity: Attendees will engage in reflective practice to assess the readiness of their organisations to implement change towards gender equity, considering the implications of new ways of working. They will gain an understanding of how to cultivate an inclusive culture that supports diversity in leadership, aligning with legislative and technological shifts in Industry 4.0.