Update on my work situation

[bowies]

I had a conference call with a group of managers after work today and there were some surprises. One, I'm not the first. I've gotten the brunt of it but there's a history with this client. Two, they don't want me to leave this task. I understand that from their POV since I have experience in project management. If I just transfer then she continues to act how she wants. Plus, who the hell would knowingly sign up for this (I mean, other than me of course ). Three, the managers were most concerned about the hours angle rather than the telework angle because it's in violation of the contract and sets a bad precedent.

The non-surprises were that they want me to document everything so they can set a meeting with our contracting and legal departments and then with her boss. They also used the words harassment and targeting - I didn't bring it up like that, just stuck to the facts, but my project manager and the colleague who formerly held the position completely backed me up since they've been witnesses to this behavior.

I know my client's boss, I work with him too, and I know he's going to have a shit fit when he finds out what she's been up to. My managers also have a really good relationship with one of the higher-ups at the client organization (my very first client, actually) and he knows and likes me. Apparently when he found out we had my client in our portfolio, he told a manager to come to him immediately if we encountered a problem.

I'm still somewhat stressed out because I fear retaliation. Not that she can fire me or anything, but she can continue to make life difficult. My project manager (who was out last week) thinks this is her way of replacing me with someone she's vetted and picked. Which wouldn't happen even if I up and left tomorrow. She's spending her time watching me like a hawk so she can build a case to get rid of me. That's painful even though I know not to take it personally. She fancies herself worthy of having someone more advanced in his/her career reporting to her. I had a hunch this was more ageism than anything else and I was right. I am the youngest by about 20 years on the team. That's not an accident. On the bright side, my performance has never been questioned or negatively commented on. So suck it, client!

I know I won't return to this task after maternity leave so I'm willing to be the whistleblower. Plus I know my company will protect me. Now I just think she's a dumbass for not biding her time.

[smock]

So you only have to put up with the shitty client for a few more months? That's good! And it sounds like your higher ups have your back. Here's hoping the client gets in a mess of legal trouble for her asshole behavior.

[mrspost08]

Well glad the call went good & they are standing behind you!

[hokiegirl82]

Sounds like a very productive meeting. I'm sorry you have to put up with her for a few more months but hopefully knowing that everyone else has your back will make things a little easier.

[curbsideprophet]

Glad the meeting went well.

[anaps28]

Sorry you still have to put up with her but it's good to know you have the support and protection of your company behind you.

[mrssandro]

What a fucked up situation. But at least your management has your back and knows you are handling it with professionalism. I could not imagine why they would want this crazy person as a client but it's likely about the bottom dollar.