The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, The Future of Women in Leadership Positions by Lauryn Male, Nicole Armstrong, and Morgan Lisnock.

In an era where gender equality is increasingly spotlighted, a compelling academic paper emerges, poised to challenge prevailing narratives at the upcoming SAM International Business Conference. This research delves into the nuanced dynamics of leadership roles within the business realm, an area where men have historically and disproportionately dominated. Despite the theoretical openness of these positions to all genders, the reality paints a starkly different picture, one where the scales are heavily tipped in favor of men. This discrepancy is not just a matter of numbers but is deeply ingrained in societal, cultural, and systemic structures that perpetuate gender imbalance.

The advent of social media has both highlighted and exacerbated this issue, yet conversations surrounding it continue to be treated as taboo, a reflection of the deep-seated discomfort society harbors towards confronting gender disparities head-on. The paper posits that achieving true gender balance in the workplace is fraught with challenges that go beyond mere acknowledgment of the issue. It calls for a concerted effort to dismantle traditional gender norms, advocating for an inclusive environment that not only acknowledges diversity but actively fosters it.

Central to the paper’s objective is the exploration of women’s current standing in leadership positions. Through an in-depth analysis backed by statistics, it paints a comprehensive picture of the landscape of gender equality in the business sector. The findings not only shed light on the existing barriers that women face but also chart a path forward towards a more equitable future. It underscores the critical role of strong, hardworking businesswomen and their allies in advocating for change, stressing that progress hinges on persistent and collective efforts to challenge the status quo.

As the SAM International Business Conference approaches, this paper stands out as a beacon of insight and hope. It not only contributes to the academic discourse on gender equality but also serves as a call to action for the business community at large. The discussion it aims to spark is one of importance, pushing for a future where leadership roles are genuinely accessible to all, regardless of gender. The anticipation surrounding its presentation is a testament to the urgency and relevance of addressing gender imbalance in the business world, marking a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace for future generations.

Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.