Discrimination lawsuit alleges bias against Atlanta-area banker

Brandie Falice, an Atlanta-area banker, has filed a lawsuit against PNC Bank, claiming she was denied a promotion due to her race and personal circumstances as a black, single mother.

Allegations of discriminatory treatment

According to the lawsuit, Falice was turned down for a managerial position despite her qualifications and years of experience at PNC. She alleges that during her interview for the promotion, a regional manager cited discriminatory reasons for rejecting her candidacy.

The lawsuit claims the manager suggested she was unsuitable for the role because “most of the branch’s customers are white,” and her being black would not align with the branch’s clientele. Additionally, the manager allegedly stated that her status as a single mother would prevent her from meeting job requirements, such as working weekends.

Emotional impact

In an interview with WSB-TV, Falice expressed her dismay: “I felt discouraged, and I felt the time I spent with this company and my efforts to reach my goals in that space were shot down because of something that I love about myself.”

She added, “It was very disrespectful, and I questioned my worth altogether because of that.”

Career trajectory before the incident

Falice, a graduate of Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, began working at PNC in 2018 and quickly advanced during her tenure, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. She was on track for a management role at the bank’s Peachtree Corners branch in Georgia after six years with the company.

PNC Bank’s response

PNC Bank has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement to WSB-TV, the company said:

“We believe Ms. Falice was treated fairly and consistent with our company values, policies, and practices. PNC does not tolerate discrimination or retaliation, and we look forward to presenting the facts in court.”

Legal representation seeks accountability

Falice’s attorney, Artur Davis, highlighted the broader implications of the case, stating:

“How many young women of color are being denied opportunities for the same kinds of bias reasons used to hold Brandie Falice back?”

Davis emphasized the need for PNC to take accountability for the alleged incident.

Falice’s career after PNC

Following the alleged discrimination, Falice left PNC in April 2024, according to her LinkedIn profile. She is now working as a senior account executive for an IT hardware maintenance and support company based in Atlanta.

This lawsuit has sparked discussions about workplace discrimination, particularly for women of color and single mothers. The case will now move to court, where both parties aim to present their evidence and address the allegations.