DiBenedetto countered, arguing that AT&T’s claim of cost-cutting through consolidation was unconvincing given the company’s solid performance in the third quarter of 2020. However, AT&T maintained that a strong performance did not preclude efforts to further improve efficiency and reduce costs by consolidating roles.
Background and Claims
DiBenedetto worked in AT&T’s property tax group from 2000 until his layoff in November 2020. In his complaint filed in November 2021, he alleged that his termination was motivated by the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. DiBenedetto claimed that his supervisor, a 59-year-old white man, had told him he couldn’t see “a 58-year-old white guy” succeeding him due to adaptability issues, a sentiment allegedly shared with a senior vice president involved in the termination decision.
AT&T argued that this statement was taken out of context and had no impact on DiBenedetto’s termination. Additionally, AT&T pointed out that another older white man assumed DiBenedetto’s responsibilities, indicating that his departure did not enhance the diversity of his supervisor’s department.
Legal Representation
DiBenedetto was represented by Marissa Torgerson and Steven Wolfe of Legare Attwood & Wolfe LLC. AT&T was represented in-house by Sheldon W. Snipe and by Cole B. Ramey, Kathleen D. Barton, Maeghan E. Whitehead, and Susan W. Pangborn of Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP.
