Abstract: This research examines the relationship between institutional isomorphism and board diversity in multinational hospitality firms. Using institutional theory, we analyze coercive, mimetic, and normative pressures shaping governance structures across different regulatory environments. A dataset of publicly listed hospitality firms from France, the United Kingdom, and the United States (2010-2019) is utilized to assess how board diversity practices emerge and evolve. Findings indicate that coercive isomorphism dominates in civil law jurisdictions with mandated gender diversity policies, while mimetic and normative isomorphism play a more significant role in common law countries where market-driven solutions influence board compositions. Furthermore, boarddiversity demonstrates a positive but non-linear impact on firm performance, varying across different performance quartiles. This study contributes to institutional theory in the hospitality sector and provides insights for corporate governance policymakers and industry leaders.

Keywords: Board diversity, Institutional isomorphism, Hospitality industry, Corporate governance, Gender diversity, Firm performance, ESG, Regulatory compliance

Pages: 495-504

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