A former Senior Vice President of Kargo Global, Inc., Alexis Berger, was awarded over $40 million in her gender discrimination arbitration case. The figure includes funds for emotional distress, back pay, and damages. Attorneys for Kargo have filed for reduction of the award in federal district court to $3 million, citing issues with the arbitrator. Berger was the highest paid employee at Kargo, overseeing 30 employees when she was reassigned to a new position in early 2016. Kargo based its decision on complaints regarding Berger’s managerial style, and how the new position did not include employee management. Berger hired an attorney and refused the new position, resulting in the company putting her on leave, leading to her termination.
Berger alleged Kargo treated her differently than her male colleagues. She was disciplined for behavior while male co-workers who had behaved in a similar fashion were not. Women who complained about a certain male executive were ignored, and that man’s behavior was essentially given a pass by the human resources department. Berger was criticized for her aggressive behavior, a trait she claims was encouraged in male employees. As a lesbian woman, Berger had to put up with comments from a specific male colleague urging Berger and her partner to engage in sexual activities with him.
An Arbitration Ruling
Many employers force employees to sign an arbitration agreement so they cannot bring a dispute to court. Instead, the matter is heard by a neutral arbitrator, who will then decide after hearing evidence from both sides. Employers prefer arbitration as a means of settling disputes because they are faster than litigation. Most employees do not realize they are bound by arbitration and cannot file a lawsuit when an issue arises because the arbitration agreement is buried in their employment contract. Unlike court decisions, there is not an appeals process for an arbitration decision. However, there are arbitration arrangements, so it is imperative to find out what type of arbitration applies to an employee.
Montgomery County Sexual Discrimination Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Advocate for Victims of All Types of Discrimination
If you have experienced gender discrimination at work, please call the Montgomery County sexual discrimination lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C.. We fight for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call 215-569-1999 for a free consultation. We are centrally located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding area.
