Abstract
The primary objective of this research is to assess the perceptions of black African middle
managers on barriers to career progression. While a number of studies have investigated barriers to
career progression among previously disadvantaged individuals, no study has focused on the
perceptions of middle managers on the barriers to career progression amongst black Africans in the
workplace. The study was qualitative in nature, employing a purposive sampling approach. Data was
collected by means of semi-structured interviews amongst 18 black African middle managers in two
major South African banks. Results indicate that a lack of exposure to senior managerial duties, lack of
career guidance and support, demographic composition of senior management, as well as perceived
unequal career opportunities present barriers to career progression. The value of the research lies in the
practical changes banks can make to Human Resource practices and policies to overcome current
challenges. The paper is of value to managers and HR professionals in the banking sector by addressing
a major South African labour market issue.