This study investigates the influence of female CEO appointments on turnover within top management teams (TMTs), focusing on the unique challenges female CEOs face as they are often seen as non-prototypical leaders. We propose that these perceptions contribute to increased instability within TMTs following female CEO appointments. Additionally, we examine how governance factors, such as board-level female representation and specific compensation structures, may moderate the relationship between female CEO appointments and TMT departures. We also differentiate the impact of these appointments on male versus female TMT turnover.