An Evaluation Of The Factors Affecting Women's Access To Decision-Making Positions Within The Scottish Banking And Financial Sector

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this research project is to explore gender based occupational segregation within the financial sector in Scotland, looking specifically at the factors affecting women's access to decision-making positions. Design/Methodology/ Approach: This study was conducted using qualitative face-to-face interviews. The interviews were conducted using only female participants, all of whom were over the age of 18 and gave written consent. A sample size of 7 was obtained across different positions of the organisational hierarchy and responsibility levels in order to gain a wide response. Findings: The research concludes that there are several cultural and industry barriers which exist and have a direct effect on the progression of women into positions of the managerial hierarchy within the Scottish banking and financial sector. Limitations: There were several limitations identified by the researcher prior to, and during the course of this research. Firstly access to participants became difficult, as the initial contact identified within the industry had an increased workload at the time of the research and was unable to aid with the identification of prospective participants. Secondly face-toface interviewing technique became difficult to implement due to the time constraints of the participants, therefore interviews had to be adapted to fit with the schedules of participants resulting in some being completed via e-mail. It is also important to note that the researcher's interpretations of relevant data may be regarded as subjective. Key Words: Gender, Occupational segregation, Career barriers, Management