In today’s globalised business environment, females are underrepresented in expatriate positions. The lower numbers of females in international assignments results from the glass-ceiling that is established within the organisational culture of MNCs. What happens however, when the organisational culture is renowned for diversity, a strong ethical code of conduct and operates in a female-focused industry? We have therefore decided to investigate: “How does the organisational culture of Alpha cosmetics affect the job satisfaction of female expatriates?” and “What are the challenges related to female expatriation?”

The study will attempt to answer the research questions by exploring the themes of organisational culture, job satisfaction and female expatriation. A qualitative research method involving semi-structured interviews, with ten female expatriates working for Alpha Cosmetics, was conducted. 

Based on our results, Alpha Cosmetics possesses a clan culture which is commonly associated with high levels of job satisfaction. That appears to be the case in the beginning, however, the dark side of the culture surfaces when the expatriate glass-ceiling is identified in the organisation. This ceiling makes females self-initiate their expatriation without receiving any of the organisational benefits accompanied with traditional expatriation. This situation signifies the negative impact of the organisational culture on the job satisfaction of female expatriates.