Abstract
Women’s representation on corporate boards is lacking gender parity compared to theirmale counterparts. Unequal corporate board representation does a disservice to corporations, stakeholders, and women. This study sought to explore how developmental networks influence career ascension for women executive board members. The data obtained in this study allowed the emergence of three themes and eight subcategories to answer the research question “What role do developmental networks play in the career ascension of women as executive board members?” The themes that emerged from the phenomenological study included: (1) factors that support the selection of women as board members, (2) networks as drivers of career progression, and (3) challenges. Interviews conducted with 12 women executive board members provided insight into the developmental networking experience and the influence they had on their own career ascension. The study provided recommendations in developing awareness around the importance of developmental networks.
Keywords: Developmental Networks, mentorship, women board members, career ascension.