Female Leadership in the Agricultural Sector

The agricultural sector faces rapid transformation driven by climate change, digitalization, and socio-economic pressures, demanding resilient and adaptive leadership. This paper explores the role of female leadership in agricultural family business succession, emphasizing its contribution to resilient and sustainable agri-food systems. Drawing on Role Congruity Theory (Eagly & Karau, 2002) and resilience frameworks, the study investigates how gendered norms shape access to leadership, the barriers women face in succession, and the systemic reforms required to foster inclusivity. Using an interdisciplinary literature review and ecosystem analysis, findings reveal persistent structural, cultural, and institutional obstacles limiting women’s visibility and participation, ranging from unequal land rights to restrictive gender norms. Nevertheless, evidence shows that women’s relational, empathetic, and collaborative leadership styles enhance innovation, sustainability, and social cohesion within agricultural enterprises. The paper concludes that empowering women in agricultural leadership is both a moral and strategic imperative to build circular, resilient, and equitable agri-food systems.