Abstract
The University of Bolton and The Centre for Diversity and Work Psychology, Manchester Business School, The University of Manchester, conducted an important, ground-breaking national study co-financed by the European Social Fund. This study investigated career development issues and generated examples of good practice for women and men in middle and senior management positions in the retail industry (store managers to senior executives to board level). The results and recommendations from this study will be developed into guidelines for the Government and will be of value to the UK retail sector in ensuring the full utilisation of talents of both female and male employees.