Director of Elektron, a platform for art, digital technologies, science and societal issues, Françoise Poos, aged 60, is also a director for several cultural institutions. She chairs the Centre Culturel de Rencontre Abbaye de Neimënster (since 2019) and the Edward Steichen Award Luxembourg association (since 2016).
Paperjam: What are the main challenges you have encountered as a female independent director?
Françoise Poos: Paternalism, however benevolent, remains a challenge in Luxembourg.
How do you deal with any resistance or scepticism towards you?
With patience, politeness and perseverance.
Do you think gender equality is progressing on boards of directors?
In culture, there are many women on boards of directors, just as there are many women working in cultural institutions. However, this is not necessarily a sign of progress. Above all, it shows that this is an area in which men are less interested because it is not always perceived as very rewarding.
What do you think about quotas for women on boards?
I think the introduction of quotas can be useful to start changing habits and siloed ways of thinking.
As a female director, do you feel a particular responsibility to champion issues of parity and inclusion?
Yes, absolutely. But for me, it goes without saying. We’re here to make things happen.
In your opinion, how does diversity influence the performance of a board of directors?
I think diversity brings more nuanced discussions and contributes to open-mindedness.
What solutions or policies do you think could encourage better parity?
There should be an affirmative feminist policy to highlight the contribution of women in all sectors of society.
What advice would you give to a woman who is hesitating to take the plunge?
You have to be prepared; one informed woman is worth two! I think patience is an underestimated virtue. Yet patience and perseverance are essential in all areas to bring projects to a successful conclusion.
What would you advise her against?
Being too impatient. The future is built step by step and together!
This article was originally published in .