The CEW Senior Executive Census is an annual benchmark series initiated in 2017. It is developed by Chief Executive Women (CEW) to measure gender representation across Executive Leadership Teams (ELTs) within Australia’s top publicly listed companies on the ASX300 index.

The purpose of this benchmark is to provide a consistent and evidence-based assessment of gender diversity in corporate leadership. It tracks progress over time, offering insight into the structural dynamics of executive leadership composition. The Census supports stakeholders in evaluating how gender equity is integrated into leadership roles and corporate governance.

The methodology involves reviewing the executive leadership teams of ASX300 companies as of 1 July each year. It includes the CEO and all direct reports, excluding company secretaries unless they also hold executive functions. The Census categorises roles into ‘CEO pipeline roles’—positions with profit and loss responsibility—and ‘other roles’. Data is sourced through OpenDirector and verified where possible via direct outreach to companies.

For finance professionals, the series serves as a tool to understand leadership trends within the ASX300. It informs risk and governance assessments, supports ESG-related due diligence, and offers benchmarks for evaluating corporate diversity policies. It can also guide strategic decision-making in investment and advisory contexts where leadership composition may influence performance and sustainability outcomes.