Gender and leadership in the tourism sector: the case of the restaurants industry in the city of Aveiro, Portugal

Abstract

Gender inequality is still a reality in today’s world. Men still take most of the decisions in the family context, while women often do not take part in the decision-making process. In the tourism sector the reality is similar. While most of the jobs are seasonal or part-time, those are mainly occupied by women. On the other hand, men hold the majority of leadership roles in tourism enterprises. Several authors have already studied gender differences in the tourism sector but there is not much evidence with regards to restaurants industry. Therefore, this paper aims to contribute to the literature, by identifying the main barriers for gender equality in leadership positions in this subsector. Data was collected through a survey questionnaire targeting leaders and employees of restaurants located in the city of Aveiro (Portugal), and it was
analyzed through content and statistical analyses. Findings show that men occupy most of the leadership positions. Men are perceived as authoritarian, respectable, knowledgeable and manipulative, and women are seen as organized, creative, comprehensive and responsible.