Open Access

Laura Maximiliane Lambach

• Women in managerial positions are still underrepresented and receive lower remuneration than male managers. The thesis aims at identifying factors which have an impact on managers' unbalanced gender presence and pay. A comparative country case study examines the situation in Australia and Germany. Results show that women's high share in part-time employment, tradition, their choice of profession and behavior (influenced by stereotypes) have a significant impact on women's earnings and career advancement. Existing policies in both countries that demand equal treatment of genders in the work environment are criticized for lack of effectiveness. Although measures combating gender inequality have been improving female managers' situation, a balanced share of women and men in management and equal pay can only be achieved if the perception of societies with regard to gender roles and stereotypes conduct a structural change towards an egalitarian gender role concept.