Women managing public services innovation: European cross-country evidence on drivers and barriers

Purpose This study aims to investigate the drivers and barriers that influence women’s capacity to innovate in public services. A theoretical framework and related hypotheses are proposed by drawing on new public management theory, self-determination theory and gender theory. Design/methodology/approach The hypotheses are tested on survey data gathered in six European countries (N = 736). Findings The results show that women managing public services innovation face more barriers and drivers than men in the European context. Barriers to public services innovation in Europe are gendered. Originality/value The findings presented here challenge some assumptions from new public management theory and self-determination theory. Also, the role of women in managing public services innovation appears to be evolving over time. The implications of these findings for research and policy are highlighted.