McKinsey Partner Removed from Leadership Role Over "Glass Cliff" Comments
Chris Bradley, a director at McKinsey's think tank, has been dismissed from his leadership position following LinkedIn posts questioning challenges faced by female executives.
McKinsey & Company has removed Chris Bradley from his director position at the McKinsey Global Institute. The decision followed public comments made by Bradley on LinkedIn where he questioned the "glass cliff" phenomenon, which describes women being appointed to leadership roles during times of crisis.
Bradley engaged in a discussion on LinkedIn with Julia Carreon, co-author of a book on the glass cliff. He described the theory as "a very convenient way to always be a victim in the rain" and characterized it as a minor or nonexistent issue.
The "glass cliff" theory, documented for over two decades, suggests women and people of color are more likely to be appointed to leadership positions during periods of organizational distress. This can lead to negative evaluations of their performance and reinforce stereotypes about leadership capabilities.
Bradley will continue his role as a senior partner at McKinsey. Reports also indicate he serves on the board of the conservative think tank, the Centre for Independent Studies.