Female CEOs in Brazil show higher LinkedIn engagement despite leadership stagnation

A study by FGV EAESP reveals that female CEOs in Brazil are more active on LinkedIn than their male counterparts. Despite representing only 7.56% of a 225-leader sample, women averaged 44.82 posts per year, which is 24% higher than the overall average of 36.07. They also achieved higher engagement, averaging 98,760 annual interactions compared to the general average of 95,297.

Globally, female participation in leadership has largely stagnated. According to LinkedIn’s ‘State of Women in Leadership 2026’ report, the share of leadership roles held by women rose from 27.9% in 2015 to 30.7% in 2022, but has since seen minimal growth. In 2025, 62% of the 74 countries analyzed reported stability or a decline in female leadership. In Brazil, women hold 32.2% of C-level and vice-presidency positions, despite making up 44% of the workforce.

Industry experts, including representatives from the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), note that barriers to advancement include gender stereotypes, limited access to professional networks, and difficulties balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Addressing these issues is seen as vital for innovation in sectors facing digital and energy transitions.