Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

James Brown

Abstract

The lack of women in leadership roles continues to be a diversity concern, and a lack of knowledge regarding the male experience promoting female advancement when in a gatekeeper role is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to explore the male experience promoting women within the hospitality industry. Role congruity theory and leader member exchange are foundational concepts for understanding bias around gender diversity and the facilitators of succession; however, what is not known is the experience of male executives facilitating female advancement, what affects their support of female successors, and the perceptions they have when considering female successors. This study used a phenomenological research method to examine the lived experiences of eight male executives with female subordinates within the hospitality industry. Through in-depth one-on-one interviews, rich descriptions were created, and distinct themes were presented. The results indicate that when facilitating female succession, male executives experience fulfillment, are affected by organizational support, and perceived their approach and advocacy as positive contributors to leadership development. When male executives have support and a deep understanding of the value of gender diverse teams, succession activities are experienced positively and can lead to more gender diverse leadership teams resulting in positive social change.

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