Why Women Often Lead Struggling Organisations
Women bring a leadership style that can greatly benefit organisations facing difficulties. Increasingly, women are taking top roles in companies, political parties, and even countries. While this appears as positive progress, many of these positions come with significant challenges and risks that may deter men.
Examples of Women Leading in Crisis
- Sarah Mullally, the incoming Archbishop of Canterbury and the first female leader of the Church of England, faces a church troubled by scandal.
- Sanae Takaichi became Japan’s first female prime minister, the fourth in five years, inheriting a stagnant economy, record inflation, and a shrinking population.
- Carly Fiorina took the helm at Hewlett-Packard as the tech bubble burst.
- Mary Barra became CEO of General Motors just before a major vehicle recall.
- In the UK, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch assumed a high-profile position amid political uncertainty.
The “Glass Cliff” Phenomenon
About twenty years ago, this trend was called the “glass cliff.” It describes how women are more likely than men to be placed in leadership roles during times of crisis and instability.
Our study conducted in-depth interviews with 33 women in senior leadership positions in 2023 and 2024.
Despite the growing number of women leaders, their perspectives and experiences in these precarious roles are rarely explored in detail.
Author's Summary
Women often step into leadership roles during crises, demonstrating resilience and unique strengths that can stabilize struggling organisations.
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