Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Marlon F. Sukal

Abstract

Women are underrepresented as chief executive officers (CEOs), executive-level officers, board directors, and national sports organization board chairs in 45 countries. Despite social movements, laws, and practices supporting equal employment opportunities and workplace equality, women in top senior-level positions are still lacking. The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges women face in terms of obtaining CEO leadership roles in international nonprofit sports organizations. The study involved exploring limitations eight women faced when aspiring to CEO positions in terms of leadership development, talent management, and policies involving international nonprofit sports organizations. This study employed a qualitative descriptive phenomenological psychological method and Giorgi’s five-step data analysis; however, due to a paucity of data that did not fulfill a descriptive phenomenological approach, a generic qualitative approach was used. The glass ceiling theory was used to examine the lived experiences of female CEOs who faced barriers while transitioning to C-level positions. Participants noted it was their love for sports that started in middle and high school that gave them the drive to pursue international sports. They noted that their journey was difficult, and they spent many hours trying to achieve their goal of becoming CEOs of international nonprofit sports organizations. They also noted they wanted to recruit women to play basketball in other places than the United States. There are many women around the world who like sports and need the opportunity to highlight their talent. This study can aid in positive social change through reducing bias in the workplace by improving and promoting equal opportunities for employee career development.

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