Despite efforts to achieve equality in the workplace, nearly three-quarters, 71%, of working Canadian women are in roles below the management level, according to Randstad Canada's Women Shaping Business study released today.

The study found the top barrier to leadership at work is an employer's fear of absence due to family obligations, cited by 47% of survey participants. The study also discovered that only 5% of working Canadian women are employed in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, presenting a major inequality in these key areas for Canada's future workforce and economy.

The survey asked, “What prevents women from advancing to senior roles?” Reponses include:

1. Employers fearing absences due to family obligations: 47%
2. Employers fearing possible maternity leave: 42%
3. Existing perception of women in managerial roles: 38%
4. Less willingness to relocate for more senior positions than men: 22%
5. Personal confidence: 21%
6. A lack of executive sponsors or mentor for female employees: 16%

“Change is hard, but it's critical for businesses that want to grow and flourish,” said Faith Tull, senior VP, human resources, Randstad Canada. “Our research shows that organizations that promote and support women perform better in an array of areas, including financially, but we're still seeing a large gap between men and women in leadership positions, particularly in those important STEM fields.”

The survey was conducted between Aug.17 and Aug. 21, 2015. A sample of 1,005 working women, including 303 managers and executives, were interviewed online.