Women make up 51% of the boards of directors of companies listed on the Milan Stock Exchange, compared to 47% across Europe. Although many of them are new to boards and have earned experience in industries other than those in which their employers operate. In 2023, 43% of listed businesses in Italy added new board members, with the majority being women with an average age of 57 and more education than males in the same position: most have a doctorate, while their male counterparts have only graduated. Furthermore, the majority of them have cross-sectoral knowledge: individuals with worldwide experience and expertise in sustainability are valued, but less so in cybersecurity, despite growing concerns about new technology. Furthermore, 51% of new members are first-timers.