Abstract: Based on the theory of business ethics and gender role differences, this study examines the impact of management gender on CSR decisions. Using the methods of multivariate regression, two-stage least squares regression and generalized moment regression, the data taken from Chinese listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges between 2010 and 2013 indicates that management gender exerts a significant influence on CSR decisions. Firms with female CEO or higher ratio of female executives are more likely to improve the quality of CSR. Furthermore, institutional environment significantly moderates the relationship between female executives and CSR. That is to say, the positive effect of female executives on CSR in regions with stronger institutional environment is more significant than that in regions with weaker institutional environment. This study expands the theoretical cognition of business ethics and corporate social responsibility, and enriches the literatures of female executives’ decision-making.

Key words: female executives, institutional environment, corporate social responsibility