India’s emergence as a hub for Global Capability Centres has contributed to a notable rise in women’s representation in mid and senior-level positions, signaling a positive shift in workplace dynamics. According to a TeamLease Digital report, the sector has played an integral role in fostering gender diversity alongside driving innovation and digital transformation. The growing presence of women in leadership roles within GCCs reflects the impact of structured Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies, alignment with global workforce standards, and the expansion of roles in finance, human resources, and digital operations—fields that have traditionally seen greater female participation.
Between 2023 and 2024, the percentage of female professionals at mid-level positions in GCCs rose from 12.12 percent to 13.68 percent, while senior-level representation saw an increase from 8.14 percent to 13.6 percent. This trend underscores the potential for long-term structural transformation in corporate environments. While the findings highlight steady progress in improving gender diversity, the report also points to a persistent gender pay gap, revealing that female employees at senior levels earn 16.4 percent less than their male counterparts.
The analysis indicates that systemic barriers continue to affect women’s career advancement and salary negotiations, reinforcing the need for further action to ensure equitable compensation. The report’s city-wise analysis reveals a contrast between Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, with women making up nearly 40 percent of GCC staff in Tier 1 locations compared to 23.36 percent in Tier 2 cities. Despite workplace challenges, including high-pressure environments and limited promotional opportunities, female workforce participation remains relatively strong in India’s leading urban centers.
The findings suggest a spirit of optimism, with progress in narrowing disparities and an increase in women entering leadership roles across industries. While significant strides have been made, continued commitment to equitable policies and structural reforms will be essential in driving sustainable gender diversity in India’s GCC ecosystem.
