Committee of 200

Committee of 200. The Committee of 200 is a premier global nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering, celebrating, and advancing women's leadership in business and entrepreneurship. Founded in 1982 by Frances Lear and Valerie Salembier, the organization comprises an influential network of the world's most successful women corporate executives and entrepreneurs. Through targeted programs, mentorship, and substantial philanthropy, it aims to inspire and support future generations of women leaders across diverse industries and sectors.

History and founding

The organization was established in 1982 by Frances Lear, the founder of ''Lear's'' magazine, and media executive Valerie Salembier. The founding vision emerged during a period when women held few senior roles in major corporations and faced significant barriers in securing venture capital. Inspired by the male-dominated Business Roundtable, the founders sought to create a powerful, invitation-only coalition of preeminent women in business. Early members included trailblazers like Geraldine Laybourne of Oxygen Media and Michele Buck, who would later become CEO of The Hershey Company. The group's first major gathering was held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, symbolizing its commitment to creating a high-impact forum for women at the highest echelons of commerce.

Mission and objectives

The core mission is to empower women to achieve significant success in the business world and to pave the way for those who follow. Primary objectives include increasing the number of women in C-suite positions, on corporate boards, and as founders of high-growth companies. A central focus is on expanding access to capital for women entrepreneurs, addressing a well-documented funding gap compared to their male counterparts. The organization also aims to create a robust pipeline of talent through education and mentorship, believing that the success of individual members should catalyze broader economic and social progress for women globally, from Silicon Valley to Wall Street.

Membership and structure

Membership is by invitation only and represents a highly selective, global community of over 500 women. The membership is divided into two distinct tracks: Corporate Executive members, who are senior leaders at major companies like IBM, General Motors, and Procter & Gamble, and Entrepreneur members, who have founded or built substantial companies such as Spanx or The Honest Company. The structure is governed by a Board of Directors composed of member leaders, with operational support from a professional staff headquartered in Chicago. Notable past and present members include Ursula Burns of Xerox, Sara Blakely of Spanx, and Ginni Rometty, former CEO of IBM.

Activities and programs

The organization executes its mission through a portfolio of strategic programs and events. Key initiatives include the C200 Foundation, which oversees philanthropic and educational efforts like the C200 Scholars Program, providing scholarships and mentorship to promising female MBA candidates at top universities such as Harvard Business School and Kellogg School of Management. The annual C200 Conference convenes members and guests for networking and thought leadership. Signature programs like the Access to Capital series and the Executive Education sessions at institutions like the Stanford Graduate School of Business offer members and protégés critical resources, while local chapter events in cities like London and Hong Kong foster regional connections.

Impact and recognition

The organization has exerted considerable influence on the landscape for women in business over four decades. Its members have been instrumental in shaping policies and cultures at Fortune 500 companies and have collectively raised billions in capital for their ventures. The C200 Foundation has awarded millions in scholarships, directly impacting the career trajectories of hundreds of women. Members are frequently recognized on prestigious lists like the Forbes Most Powerful Women and serve on the boards of global institutions like the World Economic Forum. The organization's advocacy and example have contributed to increased dialogue about gender parity in corporate governance and entrepreneurship, influencing broader movements for diversity in the global economy.