employment discrimination

[k320]

I have been working for a small private co. for the past 3 yrs that was bought out by a major corp in Oct. As part of that buyout my role as Accounting Manager was increasing due to additional newfound corporate reporting needs. I was presumably the who would be handling this role. I was included in several meetings and emails with top level corporate accounting officers. Then just after the acquisition I was talking to a VP here at the company level who I had worked for for the past 3 years. He told me they were beginning the search for a new person to handle this new role and when I asked the reason I was told that it was because "my priorities have always been my children." I am a single mom with 2 young children. I have always worked a 40-45 hour week. When occassional OT was required I was able to schedule it around my preferences which was on the weekend when I sould more easily line up add'l daycare. The search for a controller began and they hired the first man that applied. He has the same BS in AC from the same school as I but has an MS that I do not have. They also pay him $40,000 more than they pay me. His title is better than mine but his responsibilities are the same as what was outlined to me. I have had outstanding reviews over the 3 years I have been here. In my first year my salary was increased 21%, the second year 15%. I also received almost $10,000 in bonuses in addition to those salary increases. I have no reason to believe I have done anything other than exemplary work here. But having had my promotion taken away from me because "my children have always been my priority" outrages me. The VP's presumption is that this new controller role would require additional hours and that I would not be able to fulfill that requirement. No one ever asked me if it would be a problem for me. I had arranged to make arrangements for my children so I could take on this new role. I would appreciate any and all advice anyone can offer to me. Corporate is flying out to meet with me tomorrow to hear my side again. I have already reported my situation back in Oct to the VP of HR at Corporate. Finally they are now coming here to speak with me in person. I am contemplating legal action and would really appreciate any help. Thank you all in advance.Please email me at kmm320@yahoo.com
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[ALawyer]

I don't know what happened but this sounds like a real possibility of illegal sex discrimination.

It is not at all uncommon for a new employer to bring in its people, or have higher requirements for positions. Nor do I know if you have the skills and experience and drive and intelligence to do the new job. But this seems to have some real potential in terms of illegal discrimination.

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