Challenges experienced by female executive managers with children - A study of work-life balance, glass ceiling and gender gap within management in Sweden

Abstract: Academic research has tried to explain the challenges women in executive positions face in connection to work-life balance, glass ceiling and the gender gap in management. However, these previous studies have been made mainly quantitatively. Therefore, this study aims to go beyond the numbers by using a qualitative research approach. This thesis has collected in-depth data through interviews with women who have children and an executive position in Sweden. This study describes the challenges that executive women face in their career. Challenges, such as women feeling pressured to prove themselves, being perceived negatively or being criticised, were exposed. Moreover, informal networks, stereotyping and the glass ceiling were brought up by interviewees as potential impediments. Further, this study shows that it is hard for female managers to find work-life balance. It has revealed the importance of setting personal priorities, both at work and in life in general. The study also presents the importance of support to enable executive managers to advance in their career and find a work-life balance.