Shattering the glass ceiling: Challenges and strategies for women managers in steel manufacturing

Abstract

Orientation: Women’s participation in the labour force has increased significantly; however, equal advancement opportunities remain an issue across all employment sectors, especially within the male-dominated steel-manufacturing industry.

Research purpose: This study aimed to explore the challenges encountered and strategies women managers use to overcome gender-induced advancement barriers in a steel-manufacturing organisation.

Motivation for the study: Despite efforts made to achieve gender inclusivity and equality, women remain underrepresented in management positions. Therefore, this study is important as it highlights women managers’ unique gender-related challenges in South Africa’s male-dominated steel-manufacturing industry.

Research approach/design and method: Twelve women managers were selected through purposive criterion homogenous sampling and participated in semi-structured interviews. An exploratory qualitative descriptive design was used to explore their experiences, and data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Main findings: Six themes emerged from the study. Themes related to advancement challenges included the following: (1) work–life balance; (2) gender bias; and (3) professional development opportunities. Themes related to strategies included (1) self-empowerment; (2) maintaining an executive presence; and (3) professional support systems.

Practical/managerial implications: The steel-manufacturing organisation may benefit from understanding women managers’ experiences of advancement barriers and incorporating women’s empowerment programmes. Various policies and processes could be implemented to assist women’s career progression.

Contribution/value-add: This article aimed to fill the gap in literature regarding the unique gender-related barriers that women managers experience in a South African steel-manufacturing context. The study highlights strategies that women managers have implemented.