ICAB calls for more women in corporate leadership

Business leaders, policymakers and governance experts yesterday (7 June) called for greater female representation in corporate leadership and boardrooms, stressing that inclusive governance is vital for sustaining Bangladesh’s economic growth and improving corporate performance.

The call came at the Women in Leadership & Governance Conference 2026, organised by the Gender Inclusion and Leadership Committee (GILC) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) at Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden in the capital.

The conference was inaugurated by Abdul Moyeen Khan, MP, as chief guest, while Ms Rasheda K Chowdhury, former adviser to the caretaker government of Bangladesh, and Barrister Jahrat Adib Chowdhury, MP, attended as guests of honour.

Speaking at the event, Abdul Moyeen Khan, MP, highlighted women’s growing contribution to Bangladesh’s economic and social development, and underscored the need to increase their presence in decision-making roles across the corporate sector.

The conference brought together representatives from regulatory bodies, financial institutions, multinational companies, professional organisations and development partners to discuss leadership development, governance readiness and board diversity.

ICAB President N K A Mobin FCA and Vice-President Suraiya Zannath FCA reiterated the institute’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion and expanding opportunities for women in leadership and governance roles.

Delivering the keynote address, Akhtar Sanjida Kasem FCA, FCMA  Bangladesh’s first woman chartered accountant in practice presented findings from the ICAB Gender Dashboard and Women on Boards Survey, highlighting progress in women’s leadership participation while also identifying persistent challenges.

The event featured three panel discussions focusing on collaboration among professional bodies, women’s leadership in professional and corporate sectors, and the current state of female representation on corporate boards.

Participants included senior representatives from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Dhaka Stock Exchange PLC, United Commercial Bank PLC, Green Delta Insurance PLC, ACCA, ICMAB, ICSB and IIAB.

GILC Chair and ICAB Council Member Zareen Mahmud Hosein FCA said stronger leadership emerges when institutions and stakeholders work collaboratively towards shared goals.

The conference also highlighted the ICAB Ascend Mentorship Programme and recognised mentors and mentees contributing to leadership development initiatives.

United Commercial Bank PLC supported the event as title sponsor, while ACCA, ICMAB, ICSB and IIAB served as strategic partners. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) provided technical support.

Organisers said the conference reaffirmed ICAB’s commitment to strengthening pathways for women to advance into leadership and governance positions across professions and industries.