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 the 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 role in launching the internationalization project. Note: MRWs philosophy is showing respect to individuals, the environment, and society in general; equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, gender, or handicap, both with regards to recruitment and career development. 1/ 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. 2/ Does the manager who hired Sonia for the company IT manager, which is an important role, take responsibility? 3/ Any recommended solution for this case? What does the company should do with Sona and the hired manager?.

1. 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 the
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 role in launching the internationalization project.
Note: MRWs philosophy is showing respect to individuals, the environment, and society in
general; equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, gender, or handicap, both with regards to
recruitment and career development.
1/ 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.
2/ Does the manager who hired Sonia for the company IT manager, which is an important role,
take responsibility?
3/ Any recommended solution for this case? What does the company should do with Sona and
the hired manager?