Jury Says Novartis Discriminated Against Women

A federal jury on Monday found that the U.S. unit of Swiss drug maker Novartis AG engaged in a “pattern or practice” of discrimination against its female employees. In its fifth day of deliberations, the jury of four men and five women found Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. engaged in the pattern of discrimination by paying its female sales force less than its male employees and by denying them the same opportunities for promotions as male employees. The jury in U.S. District Court, Manhattan, found the U.S. unit discriminated against women who became pregnant with respect to terms and conditions of their employment. “Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation is disappointed in the jury’s verdict, as we believe the plaintiffs’ claims were unfounded,” the company said in a statement. “We will consider an appeal.” The U.S. unit noted that it was recognized for its inclusive environment during the time frame of the lawsuit. “We are proud of the public honor and recognition we have received for the policies and programs we have in place to support the advancement of women in the sales force,” the company said. Image: beta.images.theglobeandmail.com. More…

News selected by Covalence | Country: USA | Company — Ethical Quote link: Novartis | Source: The Wall Street Journal