Being “Too American,” old, and wearing Khakis can be more of a liability than an asset on the job. ” The marketing executive, Gray Hollett, originally from Long Island, allegedly found this out after he was fired. Later, complained that his bosses discriminated against him.
Taking Action as an American: Filing an EEOC Complaint
Hollett reportedly filed an Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaint this month. It was against Hollett’s former employer, Boydon World Corporation. It is a global executive search company. He became vice president of marketing in 2006. Unfortunately, Hollett was “canned” in January.
Unlawful Factors Went into Terminating his Employment
“I believe that my age, national origin, and complaints about discrimination were unlawful factors in the decision to terminate my employment,” the 61-year-old wrote in his complaint, according to the New York Post, which first reported the story. As a result, I felt ‘shaken’ by these unsubstantiated attacks.”
One in Five American Workers Age 40 and Older Have Faced Discrimination
Headquartered in Westchester County, Boydon has more than 65 offices in 40 countries. In fact, one in five American workers age 40 and older say they have faced discrimination based on their age while at work, according to the 2019 Hiscox Ageism in the Workplace study.
Be Less White, More European
Hollett, native to the New England States, claimed that Jörg Kasten, a Germany-based managing partner, called Hollett “too American. As a result, Kasten said Hollett should be “more European” and said Hollett should wear khaki pants. Therefore, Kasten suggested Hollett dress more casually like younger colleagues.
Time to Retire: Based on “Outdated Marketing Decision”
Adding insult to injury, Hollett said Nick Robeson, a UK-based managing partner for Boyden said to him it “time to retire. This based on an “outdated” marketing decision Hollett made. In turn, Hollett said he was fired in January. Therefore, he has made several complaints to the company’s CEO about the alleged ageism and anti-American discrimination.
“Record of Diversity”
In fact, a Boyden spokesman told the Post that the company “stands by its record of diversity.”
Investigation into the Matter Pending
The EEOC has 180 days from the date of the Oct. 1 filing to complete its investigation. Once completed, Hollett can either request an administrative hearing or for the agency to issue a decision based on its findings. His attorney can then file a federal lawsuit.
