Women Leadership in FMCG Firms: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Leadership has long fascinated scholars, policymakers, and practitioners due to its critical role in shaping organizational performance and culture. The conceptualization of leadership has evolved significantly, shifting from a trait-based understanding to a process-oriented phenomenon that emphasizes influence, collaboration, and adaptability. The purpose of this systematic literature review is to examine the barriers and opportunities for women in leadership positions within FMCG firms, with particular attention to developing country contexts. This study adopts a systematic literature review methodology. Academic databases such as Elsevier, Sage, Wiley, Blackwell, Cambridge University Press, Oxford University Press, and Springer were searched using keywords including “women leadership,” “FMCG firms,” “gender diversity,” and “underrepresentation of women in management.” The search was limited to peer-reviewed journal articles in English, with no restriction on publication year to capture both historical and contemporary perspectives. This systematic review highlights that women’s underrepresentation in FMCG leadership stems from cultural, structural, and organizational barriers. However, evidence strongly supports the benefits of greater gender diversity in leadership. For Pakistan and other developing countries, adopting supportive policies—such as flexible work arrangements, mentorship programs, and gender-sensitive recruitment practices—can help bridge the leadership gap.