Gender differences among city managers in the United States

Women are underrepresented in city management in the United States and have distinct experiences, compared with their male colleagues, in their professional experiences. In this chapter, we use data collected from 284 surveys and 23 interviews completed by city managers leading American cities with a population of 5,000 or greater to examine the work environment and professional experiences of such city managers. Findings suggest women are more likely to have distinct career experiences, which includes being less likely to have children at home and more likely to be new to city management. Women are also more likely than their male colleagues to have faced bias and discrimination. Using both quantitative and qualitative findings, this chapter highlights women’s experience in city management and highlights the narrative of women leading local government administration.