Reference no: EM133134719

Company ABC has experienced significant turnover (due to retirements) of their mid-level managers and has filled those positions with internal staff promotions. The eight outgoing managers, all men, participated in the promotion interview process, providing feedback to the human resources department on candidates for their replacements, and unanimously supported the candidates who were eventually chosen. Evaluations for these candidates included statements like "ambitious," "committed," "will go the extra mile," and "shows leadership potential." The unsuccessful candidates, who all had similar experience levels and prior job responsibilities to those who were promoted, received comments that included "excellent employee," "consistently meets expectations," and "skilled collaborator." 40% of Company ABC employees are women; a similar percentage of those eligible for promotion consideration are women. Six of the eight open positions were filled by men. The human resources department is aware of a complaint made by one of the unsuccessful applicants regarding the small number of women managers and executives in the company.

Is there an ethical dilemma present in this scenario? If so, describe the dilemma and significant potential consequences, and your plan to mitigate those consequences. If not, discuss how/why the company is justified in its actions. (maximum limit: 500 words)