Disgruntled employee criticizes job announcement preferring an 'experienced' worker in their 'mid-to-late 20s', claiming it as age discrimination, asserting it to be against the law.

In a recent turn of events, a UK-based photography company, Greg Williams Photography Unlimited, has found itself at the centre of a controversy over an age-discriminatory job listing. The listing, which stated a preference for applicants in their mid to late 20s, has gone viral on LinkedIn, drawing criticism from social media consultant Lauren Spearman and others who deem it as illegal under the Equality Act 2010.

The job listing, for a full-time photo assistant based in London with the ability to travel abroad regularly, is suited for someone committed to supporting an established photographer, not seeking a career in photography. However, the preference for younger candidates has been labelled as tone-deaf and discriminatory by critics.

Following the backlash, the job ad was taken down, and internal processes have been updated to ensure inclusive recruitment of candidates of all ages. A spokesperson for Greg Williams Photography Limited has issued a mea culpa over the questionable age requirement in the job listing, apologising unreservedly for the inappropriate and potentially age-discriminatory wording.

This incident serves as a reminder that employment-based ageism is not just a problem in the UK, but also appears to be a problem in the US job market. In the United States, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects individuals aged 40 and older from job discrimination based on age. Employers cannot include age preferences or exclusions in job ads or hiring criteria that discriminate against protected age groups.

Violators of these laws can face legal actions, including lawsuits, fines, damages (including back pay and emotional distress), and mandatory changes to hiring practices. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) investigates complaints of age discrimination, and lawsuits and settlements can follow upon violations.

As for Greg Williams Photography Unlimited, no direct search results or specific legal cases referencing age discrimination related to this particular company were found. However, any age-related job listing by Greg Williams Photography Unlimited must still comply with prevailing age discrimination laws like the ADEA or equivalent state laws.

In a separate incident, a legal group has accused Rutgers University of discrimination against white students in granting scholarships. The consequences and laws regarding age discrimination in job listings underscore the importance of fair and inclusive hiring practices for all.

The right candidate for the job will take pride in enabling and enhancing the creative output of the lead, not seeking personal recognition or a front-facing creative role. As the debate on age discrimination in the job market continues, it is crucial for companies to prioritise fairness and inclusivity in their hiring practices to avoid legal consequences and foster a diverse and talented workforce.

Disgruntled employee criticizes job announcement preferring an 'experienced' worker in their 'mid-to-late 20s', claiming it as age discrimination, asserting it to be against the law.