Executive Overseas Assignment

This report provides an analysis and evaluation of whether or not a female, the most qualified candidate by reason of education, experience and performance, should be expatriated for an overseas position. The method of analysis and evaluation include research of the countries political and legal stand on female business professionals, what effect will positioning her to the position have on the business, and the personal threat posed to expatriated Americans and its associated cost.

Findings: A. Results of the analysis shows a country where women have been historically oppressed, and where they have still not attained a position equal to that of men in business and politics. Of concern there are the ethical and legal rights of a U.S. citizen working abroad.

"Professor Geert Hofstede conducted one of the most comprehensive studies of how values affect workplace cultures." Using five cultural dimensions to compare workplace behavior, Hofstede's model can compare the cultural norms of two different countries (e.g. America vs. the host country). [1]

By contrast, the legal rights under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin, does have some extraterritorial application. Only U.S. citizens working for U.S. companies abroad are protected. However, in 1991, this Act was amended to include a "foreign laws defense." Under this defense, an employer may escape Title VII liability for discrimination against a U.S. citizen employed abroad upon proof that compliance with Title VII would cause it to violate the laws of the country where the employee is stationed. [3]

B. Goals of becoming one of the core markets within 20 years are certainly obtainable; the host country has a large and growing population. With her proven skills as evidenced by her excellent sales record in the US and Europe, there is little doubt that she will retain any existing contracts and negotiate even more satisfactorily. This will not only show her ability to succeed in her job but also her ability to manage the company's view or public sentiment of a woman's role in the workplace. [2] With gained respect and a good reputation, over time she can prove to be of great benefit to the company.

C. Because of the threat posed to Americans and not just females, the same increase to expenses of 20% will be associated with security. Females traveling abroad should be well versed and prepared. A pre-travel research should include: the travel warnings associated with the destination and the surrounding region; the level of local political stability; activities of any terrorist organizations; the risks posed by local criminal activity; the nature of local emergency medical care; and any country specific issues relative to assaults against women. Once at the destination