The sustained success of female executives in elite law firms in South Africa

Abstract

In South Africa, there are currently more female law graduates than male law graduates. However, it was generally reported that women continue to be under represented at senior levels within the legal industry. This reality is also reflected in elite law firms - a niche segment of the legal industry, with women remaining under represented at equity and partnership level despite their increased numbers. The objective of this research was to ascertain the career progression of female executives within the elite law firm industry; understand the factors which have enabled the small number of female executives to succeed; and identify any barriers which may be preventing other female attorneys from advancing to partnership and equity partnership levels. The study itself was qualitative in nature and utilised purposive sampling. 15 female executives/partners/directors participated in the study. The results were reported using direct content analysis. The main themes which emerged from the study was that there is in fact increased representation of women within elite law firms in South Africa. However, promotion criteria to reach director/partnership/executive levels remains highly gendered to the advantage of male attorneys. It was reported by the Participants that even though elite law firms in South Africa had made a concerted effort to increase the number of women within their structures, women remain under represented at partnership and equity levels. Should these promotion criteria remain in place – and structural changes are not made to change unequal practices, the sustained success of female executives within elite law firms in South Africa will be hampered over time