This chapter aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of gender diversity within the upper leadership positions in Italian public universities. We aim to assess the representation of women in senior positions pre and post-implementation of the Conference of Italian University Rectors (CRUI) guidelines for the preparation of gender budgeting. Gender budgeting can be considered a component of the sustainability report, specifically focusing on the gender dimension. Furthermore, we aim to identify any improving trends in gender inclusivity within the academic leadership landscape, highlighting the impact of the introduction of guidelines on the composition of senior roles. The methodology employed was quantitative, adopting a statistical approach for the analysis. Our sample comprised public universities in the Italian academic landscape, selected based on the Censis 2023 ranking. Data collection involved the analysis of the sustainability reports and/or gender budgeting reports of the selected universities. We applied the theoretical framework of nudge theory to interpret our findings. Nudge theory aims to shape choice architecture to encourage desired outcomes while maintaining freedom of choice, enabling organizations to achieve their goals indirectly. This chapter has both theoretical and practical implications. Specifically, it contributes to the existing literature on gender budgeting and gender equality studies in universities. Our study contributes to illustrating the relationship between the implementation of guidelines and the evolution of gender diversity within the upper roles of leadership in Italian public universities. Then, this study is directed to academics, policymakers, and decision-makers. The chapter aims to fill a gap in the literature. In particular, we examine the effects of introducing the CRUI guidelines on the composition of senior positions in Italian public universities.