Purpose
The purpose of this research is to examine the relationships women have with each other in the male-dominated Irish Investment Management sector. The research examines the daily ‘doing of gender’ amongst women, and examines the influence of organizational culture as women traverse their career trajectory.
Methodology
This study is underpinned by an interpretivist stance and draws upon a qualitative approach. Using a feminist lens, sixteen semi-structured interviews were undertaken with women, who are working, or had previously worked, in the Irish Investment Management sector.
Findings
The findings highlight the considerable influence of sectoral culture on how women interact with each other. The predominant perspective was that in order to ‘fit in’; one must play by ‘the rules of the game’, and behave like a man. While women in senior roles were evaluated as, ‘Queen Bees’ it was apparent that such categorization was overly simplistic and an inappropriate theorization. The results support the contention that the multidimensional barriers in male dominated environments significantly contribute to relations between women and often restrict them from becoming natural allies.
Practical and Social Implications
Understanding the importance of systemic and gendered cultural organizational settings in how women relate to and perceive each other is essential. Such knowledge allows for specific organizational policies and practices to be established, which support women in the development of effective relationships and consequently influence career progression and experiences.
Originality/Value
The issue of female inter-relationships within male dominated labour market spaces is an under-researched issue. This research extends the existing body of literature and ‘gives voice’ to women. It highlights that perceived (or real) negative intra-gender relationships are not a woman’s issue but one, which, reflects the complex gender dynamics at play in male spaces. It equally prompts reflexivity and challenges assumptions about the Queen Bee label.
Keywords: Women, Intra-Gender Relationships, Investment Management, Queen Bee
