article_snippet: An inquiry by the MPs and peers on Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee found that action was needed to break through the 'permafrost' of middle-aged men dominating the ranks of the intelligence agencies who have a 'very traditional male mentality and outlook'.
article_snippet: Across the three agencies, women make up 37 per cent of the workforce but hold only 19 per cent of the most senior roles.
article_snippet: The dominance of men, by contrast, 'can reinforce a management culture which rewards those who speak the loudest or are aggressive in pursuing their career', Hermione Norris said.
article_snippet: Women deliver a 'more consultative, collaborative approach'.
article_snippet: Hazel Blears added: 'There is a bit of testosterone in the system that says, 'Tickets, money,
article_snippet: Hazel Blears said: 'Changing the culture is the one area that is most difficult to articulate and, crucially, to take action on, but if you want change, that is where to start.
article_snippet: It is clear to us there are those at middle management level - referred to by some people as 'the permafrost' - who have a very traditional male mentality and outlook. '
article_snippet: This can reinforce a management culture which rewards those who speak the loudest or are aggressive in pursuing their career and does not fully recognise the value of a more consultative, collaborative approach. '
article_snippet: We therefore recommend that there is a real focus on identifying and tackling the barriers that can exist at middle management level, so that women and men can fully achieve women and men potential in a supportive team ethos.'