A striking 71% of those surveyed described leadership as “risky,”
A new study from the University of Limerick has found that a significant number of employees are reluctant to step into senior leadership roles due to concerns over work-life balance.
Funded by ICBE Business Excellence Skillnet, the research which was conducted by UL’s Kemmy Business School was published today.
The report, ‘Answering the Call to Lead: Future Leader Perceptions, Motivations, Skills and Needs’, found that approximately one-third of employees surveyed have no intention of pursuing senior leadership positions, even though they believe they are capable.
Concerns about work-life balance topped the list of reasons, with 27% of respondents saying it is the primary factor holding them back from career progression.
The study of 550 professionals, also revealed that work-life balance concerns are no longer seen as a predominantly female issue, with male employees increasingly prioritising family life, health, and well-being. A striking 71% of those surveyed described leadership as “risky,” highlighting fears about professional, reputational, and personal consequences.
“The Kemmy Business School is committed to supporting the mid-west, a vibrant region with an international reach. This Call to Lead research is an important piece of the picture in understanding the criticality of leadership today,” said Professor Finbarr Murphy, Executive Dean of UL’s Kemmy Business School.
Murphy continued, “It ensures the KBS can respond with Executive and Professional Education upskilling in key spaces – supporting Business Leaders where they need it most, in the ways they feel work best.”
Vivienne Kiernan, ICBE Head of Client Engagement, spoke about the future implications these findings may have.
“If even a fraction of high-potential leaders are showing reluctance to step into leadership roles, organisations face serious challenges in the coming years,” said Kiernan
“Through our Future of Work research, we aim to identify the evolving skills required by industry and ensure that Ireland’s workforce has access to the upskilling opportunities needed to thrive.” She added.
“This research offers valuable insights into the future leaders shaping Ireland’s workforce. The new generation is embracing a more balanced, holistic approach to leadership, while actively addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities ahead,” Commented Dave Flynn, Director of Business Networks Skillset Ireland.
He continued, “The findings highlight the critical need for continued investment in upskilling to empower leadership talent across all sectors.”
The study was launched yesterday, October 17 at an event hosted by ICBE Business Excellence Skillnet and the Kemmy Business School, UL in the Raddison Blu Limerick.