The benefit of gender diversity on the corporate boards of family firms (FFs) continues to receive growing interest. In this paper, we examine the goals of women who hold a position on the board of directors at FFs. Goal setting has been used to identify what they want to accomplish here. How do they make a difference? This question is answered through the theoretical lens of socio- emotional wealth (SEW) and goal setting. We contribute to the literature supporting gender-diverse board composition, emphasizing the goals associated with women on FF boards, and highlighting their role in family business succession.
Drawing on SEW and goal setting theory, this study examines how women’s goals influence succession. Driven by the research question, our data bring together three categories of goals pursued by women in the boardroom.
