SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP PRACTICES OF PAKISTANI FEMALE LEADERS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of female leaders in Pakistan in terms of sustainability leadership, as well as their personal perceptions and approach. According to UN Women and UNDP’s reports, Pakistan is in a complex situation in terms of sustainability with high climate vulnerability and low gender equality which requires extra attention in the sustainability literature. Avery and Bergsteiner’s Honeybee and Locust sustainable leadership framework was used as the theoretical framework for this purpose. A total of eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with female leaders from a variety of sectors, including the corporate finance, tourism, academia, development and small business enterprises. Overall, the findings revealed that female leaders in Pakistan had a strong commitment to sustainable organisational practices which aligned with the Honeybee Leadership style, even in the absence of systemic institutional support.