Women occupy only eight percent of the highest-paid executive officer positions….and eleven percent of board seats.  That’s according to a new UC Davis study that examined the 200 largest publicly traded companies in the state.  Management School Dean Nicole Biggart says California businesses are missing out.

"We’re a leader in social trends.  California does not have rust belt industries– we have new industries – we’re always out there being innovative – but we’re not innovative in out board rooms and executive suites.  I was very surprised and sad to learn that."

Biggart says the study also found industry differences.  The health care sector has the highest percentage of women directors – while the semi-conductor industry has the lowest.