Factors influencing career advancement of women in the banking industry in Kenya. A case of National Bank of Kenya-Coast Province

Abstract

The under-representation of women in management positions is symptomatic of every known existing organization, and this is a matter of concern, at least when considered in the context of the equal opportunities discourse. Thus the key purpose of this study was to establish the factors influencing career advancement of women in the banking sector in Kenya.

The study identified five independent variables namely gender disparity, organizational culture, gender stereotyping, networking, and work/life challenges as factors that influence career advancement of women. These were discussed in relation to the relevant existing literature. A sample literature review reveals a gap in the literature in that there is a paucity of studies about career advancement of women in Kenya. The study adopted the descriptive survey design and qualitative research methodology.

Data was collected using a self administered questionnaires. A sample of thirty three respondents was picked using purposive sampling and snowballing. The results were analyzed and presented by use of frequency tables. The research findings indicated that gender disparity, organizational culture, gender stereotyping, networking, and work-life challenges significantly influence career advancement of women in the Kenyan banking industry. The study gave several recommendations to remove or at least reduce barriers that negatively influence the career advancement of women.