The implication of maternity on female accountants and their career progression

Abstract

Purpose: This research sets out to evaluate the factors that affect the role that working mothers play in the accountancy workforce in Malta and how these factors affect their career progression within the industry. Design: The author adopted a qualitative data collection method coupled with a thematic approach to analyse the data. Semi-structured one to one interview’s were carried out with 13 working mothers who returned back to work to continue pursuing their careers post maternity leave. Findings: The main findings revealed that the key factors that affect the path a working mother choses to follow during her journey are the designation held, the support available from family and friends and the education obtained to enter the profession. The research study also shed light on how the path a working mother chose to follow will eventually affect their career progression within the profession. Conclusion: The study concluded that working mothers who wish to progress to the higher levels of management within the profession need to be ready to make certain sacrifices when it comes to their personal lives and be determined and confident in their work. It was also concluded that government, the MIA and employers also need to work on improving the incentives and initiatives offered to working mothers to help improve the working environment. Value: The study provided readers with a wide overview of the current situation, together with a number of recommendations. The study is of value to employers and governments in supporting working mothers during their journey and their career progression and to the accountancy profession in general to help bring out the awareness of the struggles and repercussions of becoming a working mother