Female CEOs Are Winning The Corporate World

Women are delivering outstanding financial results at some of the nation's largest companies, which are topping the stock market, according to Fortune's analysis. Despite the fact that women make up just five percent of all CEOs at Fortune 1000 companies, these female CEOs have seen an average of 103.4 percent return during their tenure, versus the average 69.5 percent return for the S&P 500 during the same time frame.

But it gets better. Women who are CEOs rake in more money for their companies compared to other companies with men at the helm. In fact, even though only five percent of all Fortune 1000 company CEOs are women, those companies make up seven percent of revenue at all Fortune 1000 companies. Plus, studies have shown that companies who appoint women as board of directors do better.

With all of these outstanding results, it's a shame that only 24 women are CEOS at Fortune 500 companies and there are just 27 at Fortune 1000 companies. Female CEOs actually make less than their male counterparts, not that I'm surprised by that or anything.

Other similarities found from Fortune Magazine's analysis include:

• It's not necessarily an MBA that's landing some women at the top of some of the country's largest companies. Sure, some have one. But it's not an absolute requirement.

The most common major for these female CEOs? It's not Business Administration, according to Fortune's analysis.

Interestingly, compared to the national average, there are actually more female CEOs who are married with children.

The majority of female CEOs work at specialty retailers, although food production and utility companies also make the list.

Of all female CEOs, there are fewer who also sit in the chairman seat at Fortune 1000 companies compared to S&P 500 companies.

Another stellar sign: The majority of the women hired as CEOs at Fortune 1000 companies were promoted from within the company. Strap on those running shoes, guys, and start climbing.

The takeaway? It's obvious: Time for even more female CEOs to take the helm.

Images: Fortune