Conflict at MRW: The new employee's pregnancy

MRW is a courier firm based in Barcelona (Spain). In 2010, it was consolidating internationalization of its business. It is against this background that the case raises a highly sensitive, emotional issue: What to do about Sonia, a recently-hired manager (still in her probationary period) who suddenly reveals that she is pregnant. Moreover, her pregnancy is a high-risk one, likely requiring an early medical leave. The new manager¿s post involves setting up Information Technology (IT) systems, which are vital to the firm¿s business, internationalization and invoicing. The case explores two standpoints: (1) a company weathering the economic crisis, in which it is contrary to the firm¿s `belt-tightening¿ measures to hire a replacement for an employee on leave; (2) the company¿s track record in the CSR field including its promotion of opportunities for women. The case aims to create a dilemma for students. Some will defend Sonia¿s right to a maternity leave and to continue working in MRW, especially in light of her trials and tribulations with fertility treatment and the fact that the pregnancy is a risky one. Others will defend the company¿s interests, arguing that the situation in the firm is critical and that MRW¿s internationalization is vital for the company¿s business development. The latter group will focus on Sonia¿s essential role in launching the internationalization project. The question of what to do about Sonia¿s pregnancy is a critical one for both the Technology Department and for Sonia. Dealing with it requires great care.