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Bolstering the female CEO pipeline: Equalizing the playing field and igniting women’s potential as top-level leaders

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  • Spencer, Signe M.
  • Blazek, E. Susanne
  • Orr, J. Evelyn

Abstract

Females represent just 6% of Fortune 500 CEOs in the U.S. Which competencies, traits, motivations, and experiences drive female CEOs to the corner office? Our study includes interviews with 57 women, all current and former CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, in an effort to explore the common characteristics of female CEOs and record their experiences as well as actions organizations took that supported—and hindered—their leadership ascents. We found common themes of female CEOs’ courage, risk taking, resilience, and ability to manage ambiguity. Women need not shy away from tough and unpredictable job assignments that will build these characteristics. To this end, we suggest steps organizations should take to cultivate a robust pipeline of female talent in the workplace.

Suggested Citation

  • Spencer, Signe M. & Blazek, E. Susanne & Orr, J. Evelyn, 2019. "Bolstering the female CEO pipeline: Equalizing the playing field and igniting women’s potential as top-level leaders," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 62(5), pages 567-577.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:bushor:v:62:y:2019:i:5:p:567-577
    DOI: 10.1016/j.bushor.2018.10.001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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