Date of Award
2026
Degree Name
Business Administration
College
College of Business
Type of Degree
D.B.A.
Document Type
Dissertation
First Advisor
Dr. Ralph E. McKinney, Jr.
Second Advisor
Dr. Uday Tate
Third Advisor
Mr. Matt Dimant
Abstract
The underrepresentation of minority groups in leadership roles within the pharmaceutical industry constitutes a significant issue, as evidenced by various studies. These studies consistently indicate that individuals from underrepresented groups are less likely to progress into leadership positions. It appears that much of the existing literature discusses African American women as the identified underrepresented group. This dissertation investigates the underrepresentation of minority groups in leadership roles within the pharmaceutical industry. The sample comprises both minority and majority participants who currently hold or have previously held leadership positions in pharmaceutical companies within the United States. This dissertation uses survey questionnaires to gather insights from participants. The objective of this dissertation is to identify successful activities and potential barriers to entry into leadership roles in the pharmaceutical industry. This dissertation aims to enhance the existing literature by equipping the pharmaceutical industry with valuable insights to identify and cultivate underrepresented leaders, thereby enriching their organizations with diverse perspectives, experiences, and networks.
Subject(s)
Industrial management.
Pharmaceutical industry -- Management.
Entrepreneurship.
Pharmaceutical industry.
Pharmaceutical industry -- Leadership.
Minority executives.
Minorities in the professions.
Diversity in the workplace.
Leadership.
Career development.
Success in business.
Glass ceiling (Employment discrimination)
Recommended Citation
Fuller, Eddie J., "The successful transition to executive leadership roles in the pharmaceutical industry" (2026). Theses, Dissertations and Capstones. 2115.
https://mds.marshall.edu/etd/2115
