Women's Career Development in Sport Management A Grounded Theory Approach

Purpose: Nowadays, gender inequality can be observed in most areas. The study aimed to understand the Career Development of Women in Iranian Sport Management. Methodology: This study was conducted through Grounded Theory. The statistical population comprised the academic elite in sports management, women’s studies, and management. The sample included 17 researchers and managers. For the data analyzed used, a three-step coding was completed. The axial codes were divided into four levels. Three constructs formed every level. Findings: The outcome is a simple model of constructs and their interrelationships regarding women’s career development in Iranian sports management. By applying this model, the Iranian sports authority and organizations can obtain a crystal-clear image of the complicated road ahead . It can be used to examine the factors and their relationship to improve the current situation and devise a plan for the future of women's career development. Originality: In Iran, sports management is challenged by the lack of women in senior levels of sport organizations and the lack of clarity related to developing their career opportunities. In this study, grounded theory has been used to create a realistic picture of the complex situation of women's career advancement paths in sports organizations.