The proportion of women represented on the boards of ISEQ 20 companies has fallen from 42% to 40%, according to new research.
The latest data from the Government established Balance for Better Business Review Group reveals that female representation across all listed companies stands at 38%.
According to the research, 45% of ISEQ 20 companies have three or more women on leadership teams, according to the research.
The data analyses the composition of board and leadership teams across publicly listed companies in Ireland in March 2025.
It shows that Ireland now ranks sixth in the EU for female board representation.
This is a fall from fifth position since November 2025 but an increase on the 16th position held by Ireland in 2018.
Female representation on the leadership teams of Ireland's largest listed companies has remained steady at 26%.
The proportion of women on leadership teams across all listed companies has increased slightly to 26%.
Due to changes in the composition of the ISEQ20, there is now only one female CEO and one female chair on the index.
There are three female CFOs across the all listed companies cohort.
Balance for Better Business co-chair Carol Andrews said the pace of change across the business landscape remains uneven.
"Gender balance should be a strategic imperative for every organisation, whatever their size or industry," Ms Andrews said.
"I’d encourage every organisation to explore our roadmap for the key steps to accelerate the pace of progress on their journey," she added.
Balance for Better Business co-chair Bernard Byrne said that while the positive momentum at board level is making a real difference, it is crucial there is an increased focus on senior leadership.
"By taking action today, we can empower the next generation of female leaders and build a stronger future for Irish business," Mr Byrne said.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke welcomed the latest findings.
"As we look ahead to the implementation of the EU Gender Balance on Corporate Boards Directive, it is vital that we maintain this momentum and ensure that gender balance is a key strategic pillar for every business in Ireland," Mr Burke said.
