African American women in leadership positions in Los Angeles City Government: A qualitative phenomenological study

This qualitative phenomenological study involved a purposive sampling of 20 African American women either serving, or have served in senior leadership roles in the Los Angeles City Government (LACG). Few studies exist exploring the competencies of African American women in leadership roles in local government. The results from the present study demonstrated areas of significance to African American women aspiring to obtain senior leadership positions, including (1) barriers, (2) competencies and characteristics, (3) mentoring and networking, (4) education, and (5) leadership styles. Results of the present study may be invaluable to African American women aspiring to promotion to senior leadership roles. The LACG may find the outcome beneficial in the organization's continuing efforts to promote gender and race diversity within the organizational structure.