Kearney and Egon Zehnder have officially launched IGNITE Thailand, a powerful new community designed to unlock the next generation of professional women leaders in Thailand. This is a meaningful step toward advancing gender representation at the highest levels of corporate leadership.

While Thailand is home to many accomplished women in business, representation at the highest levels remains limited. Today, women hold only 19% of board seats in Thailand, compared to the European average of 30–40%. Research by Kearney and Egon Zehnder highlights that mentorship, coaching, and access to strong professional networks remain critical to advancing women into leadership roles.

IGNITE Thailand is guided by 13 advisory board members: Nualphan Lamsam, Wallaya Chirathivat, Pitiporn Bee Phanaphat, Nok Anulomsombut, Gloyta Nathalang, Panchalee Weeratammawat, Tongjai Thanachanan, Sarinra Wongsuppaluk, Susanne Migchels, Reetima Rakyan, Dr. Lisa Patvivatsiri, Chompan Kulnides, and Voraphak Banlengchit.

Nualphan Lamsam, Advisory Board Member at IGNITE Thailand & CEO of Muang Thai Insurance PCL (MTI) said: “This program enhances leadership development and supports the advancement of women into C-level positions in Thailand,”. She also added, “I am honored to be part of this important women’s empowerment effort.”

Leona Manoonpong, coordinating lead for IGNITE Thailand and principal at Kearney, said: “IGNITE Thailand is built on the five pillars of R.A.I.S.E.: Recognize and celebrate achievements. Advocate for positive change. Share Insights on advancing career growth. Support through mentorship and meaningful connections. And Empower for continued career growth through capability building.”

Wallaya Chirathivat, Advisory Board Member and President & CEO of Central Pattana (CPN), shared: “IGNITE Thailand was created to empower and connect women leaders across industries. More than just a program, it is a platform to unlock the next generation of women leaders. When women advance, society advances.”

Henny Purnamawati, partner at Egon Zehnder, facilitated the panel discussion with the IGNITE advisory board. The inaugural gathering also brought together 16 mentors and 22 mentees from Thailand’s leading Thai and multinational companies across industries such as Central Group, CP Group, SCB – Siam Commercial Bank, SEA Group, Bangchak Corporation Public Company Limited, MBK, Coca-Cola, ThaiBev, Osotspa Public Company Limited, Asian Development Bank (ADB), FrieslandCampina, King Power, Minor International, Microsoft, Agoda, Betagro Group, PTT Group, AIS, and Unilever.

Kearney and Egon Zehnder Launch IGNITE Thailand: Empowering the Next Generation of Women Leaders