From the margins to the mainstream

Abstract

This study examined the career trajectories of foreign women in leadership positions in higher education in Japan. The objectives of this research were to explore the lived experience of the participants and to make recommendations for practice based on them. A narrative methodological approach was employed in order to qualitatively explore the research problem and intersectionality was used as an interpretive lens. The findings of the study indicated the commonalities experienced by the participants and include their accidental entry into higher education in Japan, their adeptness at building their careers by pursuing higher level qualifications, their taking advantage of opportunities afforded to them because of being foreign, and their overcoming barriers primarily with the help of mentors. Findings also demonstrated that participants, from their current leadership roles, are creating more inclusive work environments and, rather than taking on formal leadership roles, are developing their own niche and leading according to their strengths. Recommendations for practice include the expansion of professional development programs in order to create opportunities to hone networking, mentorship, and leadership skills. Additionally, it is recommended that shifts in attitude towards women in the workplace and women in leadership roles may be facilitated through more balanced hiring practices and through diversity and inclusion workshops. A final recommendation is for scholars to more consciously combine their research with their practice in order to better serve students.