Reference no: EM132303985

A female executive of a local (New Mexico) IT firm informs her director that she is pregnant. The director, who was always a strong supporter of the female executive's upward mobility and future, becomes less vocally supportive and submits a "below average" performance analysis for the mid-year performance evaluation. The mid-year performance evaluation is in stark contrast to the five prior evaluations that all determined that she "exceeded expectations." The director explains that the basis for the "below average" rating is the female executive's anticipated time off for the birth of her child, and her recent inability to complete tasks due to medical appointments. The "below average" evaluation results in a loss of mid-year bonus and a rejection of the fiscal year pay increase to her salary. She becomes the lowest paid executive, of the five other executives at her level - all of whom receive bonuses and pay increases.

Is this employment discrimination? Explain in detail why or why not? What are the rules of law applicable to your determination? Do you agree with the outcome?