The survey was conducted with 1,000 managers and asked respondents to rate how they believed their industry compared against a range of diversity markers.

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The full list, from most to least diverse in terms in gender representation, is:

• legal – 40%
• hospitality – 44%
• marketing – 49%
• sales – 50%
• scientific – 52%
• engineering & manufacturing – 52%
• logistics – 53%
• call & contact centre – 54%
• accountancy & finance – 55%
• business support – 56%
• social work – 56%
• healthcare – 57%
• financial services – 59%
• hr – 59%
• industrial – 60%
• transportation – 63%
• construction – 68%.

The research also looked into racial and age diversity within businesses across the sectors.

Some 56% of managers in the construction industry believe their business lacked racial diversity, with 54% admitting age diversity was an issue.

Two-thirds (66%) of managers also believe a more diverse workforce would help resolve the skills shortage in the construction industry.

Erin Vickers, director of talent and engagement at Search Consultancy, said: “The benefits of having a diverse team are endless.

“Looking outside of the typical candidate demographic can help resolve the skills shortage, create a better understanding of customers and significantly improve employer brand.

“Now more than ever, it is time to encourage increased diversity in the workplace and help businesses grow following a very difficult 12 months.”