Is calling her a fat cow illegal harassment?

One of the managers that reports to me (male, age 35) allegedly told some clerical workers that he "was out to get that fat cow fired," referring to a female manager age 39. One member of her staff heard him, called him to task and brought the case to me (vice president of HR). The female manager has threatened action. What can I do to settle this? Both of these managers are excellent at what they do.

Rita Risser's Response:

Hmm, I'm not too sure about that last statement! If the man who said this reports to you, he's a Director or manager of Human Resources. What is wrong with this picture? Top management and HR people should hold themselves to the highest standards. Here you have a top level HR person who not only made an extremely insulting remark, but also discussed a confidential personnel matter with clerical staff who had no apparent need-to-know. Beyond that is the threat to have her fired for no apparent reason.

One comment like this is not enough for an illegal harassment case. But it certainly should violate company policy and certainly should be the subject of a disciplinary action. This man should have no opportunity to make any personnel decisions about the woman, especially whether she is to be terminated from employment. If in fact there is good cause for terminating her, I suggest you hire a lawyer long before you begin the corrective coaching process.

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