Women working as interim managers earned on average 7% less than their male colleagues in the six months from July to December 2009, according new research.
The latest snap shot survey of 11,000 Interim Managers from Russam GMS found that women were paid on average £553 a day, compared to an average daily rate for men of £592.
The gender pay disparity was pronounced in sales and marketing, HR services and financial services. In general management, however, women were paid more than men, £650 a day compared with £634.
Interestingly, the research also showed that whilst women only accounted for 12% of the survey database, 51% of women who responded to the survey were on assignment compared with 45% of the total number of Interims on assignment.
Chairman of Russam GMS, Charles Russam said that although the statistics showed that women earned slightly less than men in the last six months there was no concrete evidence as to why this is the case.
He went on to explain there is no difference in the way in male and female view money and negotiation and they face common challenges including competition from new entrants and clients being more choosey and cost conscious.
To win jobs, it is essential for all interims to keep their skills up to date, present themselves well, be flexible and willing to travel to assignments and market themselves effectively, he added.