Gender diversity in top management team and corporate social responsibility performance: examining the moderating nature of TMT international experience

Abstract

Purpose

This study is based on the role congruity theory that examines the association between top management team (TMT) gender diversity and corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from the Taiwan Economic Journal database and the Market Observation Post System provided by the Taiwan Stock Exchange. The sample consists of 4,140 annual observations of Taiwanese-listed companies in the electronics industry from 2016–2020.

Findings

The results revealed that TMT gender diversity is positively associated with CSR performance, and TMT international experience strengthens the positive association between TMT gender diversity and CSR performance.

Practical implications

CSR is imperative. The TMT’s gender diversity aligns with current environmental trends and social expectations, driven for CSR implementation essential. This diverse configuration enables the TMTs to address corporate adaptability and maintain global competitiveness.

Originality/value

The findings contribute significantly to the literature on TMT gender diversity by extending the application of role congruity theory beyond individual to team-level contexts and across gender boundaries. By incorporating diverse capabilities such as international experience within TMTs, the authors identify key boundary conditions that foster CSR. This expansion not only aligns with practical realities but also opens new avenues for research into the dynamics of diverse management teams.

Citation

Chiao, Y.-C., Chang, Y.-C., Hsu, Y.-J., Lu, C.H. and Chang, M.-L. (2024), "Gender diversity in top management team and corporate social responsibility performance: examining the moderating nature of TMT international experience", Gender in Management, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/GM-01-2024-0033