# A woman’s role in health leadership: an assessment of experiences during acute public health emergencies

## TL;DR

This study explores the challenges and leadership experiences of women during public health emergencies, highlighting gender-specific and systemic barriers.

## Contribution

The study identifies unique leadership experiences and challenges faced by women in public health emergencies, emphasizing gender-specific and systemic issues.

## Key findings

- Women leaders face disproportionate workplace expectations and authoritarian decision-making during emergencies.
- Women exhibit different leadership styles and perspectives compared to men in emergency responses.
- Systemic and sociocultural barriers intersect with operational challenges during crises.

## Abstract

We explored the experiences of women in senior or leadership roles in navigating and leading during acute public health emergencies.

Women leaders in the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region attending the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network’s Outbreak Response Leadership Training (11–18 September 2024) were invited to participate in this phenomenological study. Eleven interviews were conducted with training attendees and observational data were gathered. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes.

Four themes associated with women-centric experiences in public health emergency response were identified: disproportionate expectations in the workplace; the use of authoritarian decision-making during planning and implementation; encompassing different perspectives and leadership styles compared to men; and requesting additional opportunities and equitable prospects for career growth. Four themes that reflect non-gender-exclusive challenges experienced during emergency responses were also detailed. Themes observed were related to: barriers to efficiency; consequences of working within this field; and needs and necessities during emergency response.

This study highlights both gender-specific and systemic challenges experienced by women leaders in public health emergency responses, revealing how sociocultural norms and operational barriers intersect during times of crisis. We identified opportunities to assist women leaders through the recognition and promotion of different leadership styles, establishing a support network for women, and addressing systemic and organizational barriers that impact women.