At a glance at Teikoku Databank’s latest survey, women managers rising highlights slow yet steady progress in Japan. The study shows this trend gaining momentum that reflects broader shifts across corporate Japan. This year, companies averaged 11.1 percent of managerial roles held by women. That represents a modest 0.2-point rise from last year and marks the eleventh straight year of growth. Still, this share remains far below the government’s goal of around 30 percent in leadership by the 2020s.
Digging deeper, large companies only reported 8.3 percent of female managers. Smaller firms saw higher representation at 14.3 percent, perhaps because many are family businesses. Boardroom numbers improved as well. Female representation in boards climbed to a record 13.8 percent. Nonetheless, most firms still operate with all-male boards.
Looking ahead, 31.8 percent of companies expect female managers to increase. Meanwhile, 42.7 percent foresee no change in the near future. A chemical firm summed up one obstacle: work-life balance remains a hurdle. Marriage, childbirth, or partner relocation often affect women’s career paths. Therefore, the survey urged stronger support systems at work and at home.
Interestingly, male employees are starting to take more child care leave. Their leave rate jumped 8.6 points, reaching 20 percent. To collect these insights, researchers conducted an online survey from mid-July to the end of the month. They received responses from over 10,000 companies nationwide.
Still, the gap looms large. Even with gains, the pace remains slow. Analysts link this trend to lingering traditional expectations and structural gaps in support for working women. When comparing globally, Japan still lags far behind peers like Britain or France. Countries with stronger gender diversity show clear economic and social benefits.
That said, women managers rising reflects a shift in mindset and policy. It shows that momentum is growing, however slow. Ultimately, women managers rising signals progress that deserves more active reinforcement. Japan must maintain this trajectory to meet its stated goals. The survey offers clarity—and hope—that the right policies can change the picture.
