Maeve Bradley, one-time assistant vice-president of Citibank’s Belfast branch, has settled her sex discrimination lawsuit against the bank. In the end she won £215,000 from her bank. The settlement follows a return to the office of Bradley after her maternity leave, early in 2023. After her return she was offered a different role, leading to claims of discrimination. As a result of the settlement, Citibank has not admitted liability in this case.
Bradley, who has a 13-year career in the financial sector, most recently with Citibank, joined in March of 2021. She was expected to get a promotion from assistant vice-president to vice-president. Upon returning from maternity leave, she was devastated to find herself offered a different position instead of the expected promotion.
“All I did was have a baby. I loved my job, I wanted to return to my job.” – Maeve Bradley
Second, Bradley filed a formal grievance against Citibank using its corporate mechanisms. The grievance was denied, leading her to sue claiming sex discrimination along with two other causes of action. The case was supported by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
“I really enjoyed managing the people that I worked with. I was very comfortable in my role. I worked hard in my role and made myself where I wanted to be in my career.” – Maeve Bradley
Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner, focused on the need of protective legislation from sex harassment. She shot back that these laws were intended to avoid discriminating against people based on their pregnancy status or family needs.
“The laws protecting women from sex discrimination were introduced almost 50 years ago to ensure women can return to and remain in the workforce and not be disadvantaged because of pregnancy or family responsibilities.” – Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner
Though the terms of the settlement include paying back pay to Bradley, she said she was disappointed that Citibank lost the talent. Her case highlights the struggles that women continue to experience when returning to work after maternity leave.