Objective:

This assignment evaluates your ability to analyze a workplace scenario where employment laws are violated or challenged. You will identify legal issues, recommend solutions, and discuss the role of HR in addressing compliance.

Scenario:

You are the HR Manager for a mid$-$sized company with over $300$ employees. Recently, an employee, Zainab, has filed a formal complaint alleging gender discrimination and unequal pay in violation of employment laws. Zainab claims:

She receives a lower salary compared to male colleagues with the same role and experience.

She has been overlooked for promotions, while her male counterparts have advanced.

There is a lack of clear HR policies regarding pay transparency and promotions.

The company leadership has asked you to investigate Zainab$$s claims, identify potential legal violations, and provide recommendations to resolve the issue while ensuring compliance with employment laws.

Assignment Tasks:

$1.$ Identify Legal Issues $(4$ Marks$)$:

Identify and explain the legal issues Zainab$$s claims bring forward, such as violations of the Equal Pay Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, or relevant local labor laws.

Discuss the implications of non$-$compliance for the organization $($e$.$g$.,$ lawsuits, penalties, or reputation damage$).$

$2.$ Investigation Plan $(2$ Marks$)$:

Outline the steps you would take to investigate Zainab$$s claims.

Who would you interview? What documentation would you review $($e$.$g$.,$ payroll records, performance reviews, promotion history$)?$

$3.$ Propose HR Solutions $(2$ Marks$)$:

Recommend two strategies to address the legal issues and prevent future occurrences. For example:

Implementing pay audits to ensure equity. Creating transparent promotion and compensation policies.

Justify how these strategies will help the company comply with employment laws and improve workplace fairness.

$4.$ Role of HR in Compliance $(2$ Marks$)$:

Discuss the role of HR in ensuring legal compliance and fostering an inclusive work environment.

Highlight the importance of regular training, policy enforcement, and open communication channels.