MANAGERIAL PROMOTIONS IN A PUBLIC AGENCY: IMPLICATIONS FOR SECOND CAREERS

Abstract

Describes a study in which actual mobility paths of 94 managers in a special governmental agency in Israel were analysed, in order to identify important career enhancers. This primarily exploratory study was designed after managers expressed concerns about the implicit role of such factors which may not reflect formal career policy. Managers at the agency, which is involved in marketing and procurement of defence‐related goods, oversee field activities and support or administrative functions. Data from computerized personnel files were analysed through the use of transition matrices and statistical analyses. Two factors enhancing managerial careers in the agency emerged: an entry field job (an assessment position), and previous military career (an assessment career). These informal career contingencies may reflect a latent opportunity structure not formally recognized by the organization, but perhaps understood and internalized by members. By implication, managers who recognize such contingencies and mana...