Female and male managers – equal progression?

Abstract

Retailing is a labour-intensive industry, and one which relies heavily on the employment of women. The gender and occupational structure of one major mixed retail company is analysed. This reveals that men and women ocuupy different positions within the company structure. Although recruited equally to management trainee positions, the evidence suggests women in retailing may be encountering a glass ceiling. Achieving senior management positions is clearly more difficult for women than men. Some explanations for the lack of women in retail management are proposed and among the strategies to enable their more equal participation are: readdressing personnel policies, recognizing the benefits of women's values and management style to the company, identifying training needs to allow women to pursue management careers successfully and flexible working at all levels within the company. To be successful it is crucial these strategies are supported by top management.