| DOI LINK: https://doi.org/10.59879/j1VJs |
| Paper ID:j1VJs |
| Volume:38 |
| Issue:3 |
| Title:Who Deserves the Seat? Examining the Struggle for Diversity and Equity in Sports Management Selection in Romania |
| Abstract:This study explores the complexities of sports manager selection, investigating the impact of affirmative action, recruitment strategies, organizational culture, diversity initiatives in board selection, and career advancement insights from coaches' perspectives. To conduct this investigation, a purposive sampling technique was employed by, selecting 78 prominent sports managers and coaches from Romania. Data were collected over an extended period, spanning from winter 2023 to spring 2024, through semi-structured interviews with sports managers and coaches. The findings revealed persistent challenges in effectively implementing affirmative action measures, as sports managers grapple with balancing the promotion of deserving candidates while maintaining continuity in board culture. Achieving meaningful diversity requires nuanced approaches that consider both candidate quality and cultural compatibility. Moreover, this study sheds light on coaches' perspectives when considering executive council positions, highlighting various pathways to career advancement. Recruitment practices prioritize informal methods, emphasizing board cohesion. Despite the recognized importance of diversity, challenges persist in selecting candidates based solely on demographic representations. This study provides valuable insights into promoting diversity and inclusivity within the executive councils of sports organizations. Future research could focus on longitudinal trends and qualitative experiences of underrepresented groups in sports organizations to promote equity. |
| Keywords:affirmative action, recruitment strategies, organizational culture, board selection, career advancement insights. |
| Authors:Valentina STEFANICA, Adriana MATEESCU, Corina POPESCU, Maria Cristina MAN, Ovidiu DRAGOS, Florin COJANU, Diana HRISTACHE, Daniel PIRVU, Paul VISAN |
| Paper PDF Link: View full PDF |