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The article reports on the findings of a qualitative inquiry into the lived experiences of a small sample of women chairs at universities in South Africa and Britain selected by purposeful sampling. Data were collected by means of video conference focus group interviews. Findings indicated that women department chairs require managerial competencies: rigorous scholarship as well as certain  structures and procedures are necessary for the smooth management of a department. They face broader contextual issues in higher education owing to change, and the dual role influences their career experiences.