Beyond the glass ceiling: a gendered and cultural hospitality management discourse on the advancement of women based on integrated research paradigms

Abstract

The advancement of women into the high echelons of leadership is no longer a luxury but an urgent challenge.  Educational, sociological, cultural and legal barriers continue to marginalise women in this respect (Kjeldal, Rindfleish, & Sheridan, 2008).  However, the applicability of these factors in the hospitality industry remains inadequately explored. This research paper articulates the extent to which Zimbabwean women are breaking through the hospitality management glass ceiling.  It examines the advancement barriers and their impact on policy implementation.  Critical gender theory (Marx, 1994) blends with cultural theory (Hofstede, 2001) to inform the study.  Development research recognizes the complexity and sensitivity surrounding gender discourse in Africa. Consequently, integrated and contextualised research paradigms are used in this study which rejects the rigid prescriptive approaches often responsible for failed interventions in African development politics (Samkange 2011; Pretorious & Roux, 2011).  Findings indicate robust gender legislation alongside significant political in-roads towards advancement into government leadership, a development not replicated in hotels. Policy implementation gaps expose socio-cultural barriers, which could be addressed through integrated intervention strategies (Manyoni, 2010).