Nestlé Waters North America, a bottled water company, paid $300,000 to settle a lawsuit by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for gender discrimination.
The suit claimed the company failed to promote Dawn Bowers-Ferrara, a 20-year employee, because of her gender and subsequently selected her as the only one among 14 Florida zone managers to be terminated during a consolidation.
Despite her experience, a less qualified male was chosen for a newly created position. In addition to the settlement, Nestlé agreed to provide Bowers-Ferrara with 12 months of outplacement services.
Key Lessons Learned From this Case:
- This case is a reminder of the importance of fair and unbiased employment practices, with the EEOC emphasizing that employment decisions should be based on qualifications, rather than gender.
- It also highlights the legal and financial risks associated with failing to adhere to anti-discrimination laws.
Learn more about Florida Labor Laws through our detailed guide.
