Breaking through the Glass Ceiling: The Professional Trajectory of the Chairwomen of Regional Accounting Councils

Abstract

Objective: The overall objective of this study was to analyze how the chairwomen of  Conselho Regional de Contabilidade  (CRC) ) in Brazil, during the 2018-2019 term, overcame the 'glass ceiling' phenomenon in their trajectories until the ascension to the leadership of the profession’s class body.

Method/Approach: This study used qualitative and exploratory research, supported by Gender Theories and the 'glass ceiling' phenomenon (imperceptible barriers that hinder professional advancement). Seven chairwomen were interviewed and the interviews were analyzed through Content Analysis and the Critical Incident Technique using  the  QSR-Nvivo software.

Results: The main results indicate that the discrimination exists beyond the Councils and the literature; the personal and professional influences are important to demystify the stereotypes of female incapacity intrinsic in the  Councils’ structure; and the gender and gendering were present throughout the professional career of the CRC chairwomen.

Theoretical/methodological contributions: This research contributes to the discussion about stereotypes and the ‘glass ceiling’ phenomenon in the rise of women to presidential positions in  Conselhos Regionais de Contabildiade.

Originality/Relevance:  This study evidences that notwithstanding the rise of women to presidency in CRCs across Brazil, They are still suffering social discrimination, especially when they decide to subvert sexist narratives of power and occupy places considered as masculine, such as the presidency of an entity.