Transformative Interventions to Supporting Gender Equality in Senior Roles Within Higher Education

The chapter examines the rationale, design, pilot, and implementation of the Preparing for Academic Advancement programme across seven higher education institutions in Ireland. Through quantitative data, we evidence the success of the intervention to career progression outcomes and progress towards gender-balanced representation in senior academic roles within each institution. Crucially, we also draw on qualitative data from programme participants and facilitators to examine the lessons for the design of career development activities that can be drawn from this programme. The chapter contributes to our understanding of the importance of mentoring, social support, and creating opportunities for broadening academic networks outside of individual institutional and disciplinary networks. The chapter also outlines the development of a programme aimed at Professional, Managerial, and Support Staff (PMSS). The chapter concludes with a future research agenda for identifying targeted impactful interventions to those at specific career stages.