Abstract:

This study examines the work experiences of female managers in Nigerian commercial banks to understand how rapid shifts in work models during and after the COVID-19 pandemic shaped work–life balance, well-being, and career sustainability. Drawing on role theory, boundary management, and feminist theory, the study adopts a qualitative, exploratory approach, using semi-structured interviews with 15 female bank managers. Findings reveal that pandemic-era flexible work arrangements significantly improved work–life integration, autonomy, and productivity by temporarily disrupting rigid availability expectations. However, post-pandemic reinstatement of office-based work arrangements, driven by cultural visibility norms, presenteeism, and limited performance-monitoring systems, has reintroduced historic strains on women’s well-being. The study contributes to Human Resource Development scholarship by highlighting that sustaining flexibility requires systemic capability building rather than temporary policy adjustments. Practical recommendations emphasise outcome-based performance evaluations, inclusive work design, and structural investments to embed equitable, crisis-resilient working practices in developing-economy contexts.

Please choose your submission type: Full Paper

Primary Track: Organisational Studies

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Dr. Opeyemi titus