MPA Major Research Papers
Date of Award
8-17-2023
Degree Type
Major Research Paper
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration
Program
Political Science
Supervisor
Carol Agoçs
Geographical Areas
Canada, Ontario, Greater Golden Horseshoe
Abstract
Despite women's progress in various professional domains, a persistent gender disparity remains evident in local government's most senior non-elected leadership roles. The underrepresentation of women in municipal city management continues, even though women comprise 47.4% of the Canadian labour force (Catalyst, 2020). This research paper aims to understand the underrepresentation of women in municipal Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) roles by examining theoretical perspectives and drawing from recent qualitative research into the gender imbalance in public sector leadership by DeHart-Davis et al. (2020). This research paper aims to shed light on the need for substantive change by unravelling the complexities surrounding the pervasive underrepresentation of women in municipal CAO roles. Secondary data collected on 110 municipalities in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe region is analyzed and compared with other research findings to assess the gender balance among CAOs.The research findings contribute significantly to the scholarship on gender equality in Canadian local government leadership. This research paper offers insight for students, practitioners, and municipal leaders seeking to understand and promote equality in senior administrative positions. This research aims to contribute to existing research on systemic inequality in local government and understand the importance of a more inclusive and diverse leadership landscape.
Recommended Citation
Sutton, Kelly, "Exploring Factors Perpetuating the Underrepresentation of Women CAOs in Local Government" (2023). MPA Major Research Papers. 247.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/lgp-mrps/247