Abstract
Previous research indicates that while many women are joining the labour market, there is still a significant gap in their representation in influential and leadership roles within organisations. However, research has outlined the imperative role that women play in leadership roles. Despite progress in gender diversity, women in leadership face continuous challenges in achieving work-life balance (WLB), which can negatively affect their overall life satisfaction. This study determines the impact of flexible work arrangements (FWAs) on life satisfaction of women leaders in South African organisations, and the mediating role of WLB. Utilising a quantitative cross-sectional design, data was collected from 120 participants through convenience and snowball sampling. A significant positive relation between FWAs and life satisfaction was confirmed. Analysis via Hayes PROCESS in SPSS revealed mediation in one hypothesis, while the other two hypotheses did not demonstrate mediation effects. The findings indicate that enhanced FWAs contribute to increased life satisfaction among women leaders. This research provides valuable insights for organisations seeking to implement effective FWAs that cater for the unique needs of women in leadership roles, ultimately improving their experience and life satisfaction. Future studies should expand on these findings to develop more comprehensive strategies for supporting women leaders in navigating their professional and personal lives.
Keywords: flexible work arrangements, life satisfaction, work-life balance, work interference with personal life, personal life interference with work, work-personal life enhancement, women leaders.