Date of Award
Spring 2017
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Advisor(s)
Meng Yan
Abstract
In this paper, I examine gender differences in the career development of chief financial officers (CFOs). Specifically, I study if there is a significant difference in the background experience of female and male CFOs. Using a match sample of 2014 S&P 500 firms led by female versus male CFOs, I find that sample female CFOs have comparable job experience and are promoted at similar ages to their male counterparts. This is in contrast from prior literature on female CEOs, who enjoy a faster career track in firms that consistently employ female executives. A potential explanation is that the pool of female candidates for CFO position is larger than that for CEO position, therefore creating more competition for CFO roles and reducing the likelihood that female CFOs will enjoy that fast career track.
Recommended Citation
Scott, Lianna, "Gender Differences in the Background Experience of CFO's" (2017). Gabelli School of Business Honors Thesis Collection. 125.
https://research.library.fordham.edu/gabelli_thesis/125
