Kate Lowry, a former vice president at Insight Partners, filed a lawsuit against the venture capital firm on December 30 in San Mateo County, California, alleging disability discrimination, gender discrimination, and wrongful termination. The suit, reviewed by TechCrunch, claims that Lowry experienced a hostile work environment and unfair treatment during her tenure at the company, which began in 2022.
Lowry stated that she initiated the legal action to challenge what she perceives as a systemic problem within the venture capital industry. "Too many powerful, wealthy people in venture act like it’s OK to break the law and systemically underpay and abuse their employees," Lowry told TechCrunch. "It’s an oppressive system that reflects broader trends in society that use fear, intimidation, and power to silence and isolate truth. I’m trying to change that."
The lawsuit details that Lowry's initial supervisor assignment differed from what was discussed during her hiring process. According to the suit, her new supervisor, also a woman, allegedly demanded constant availability, requiring her to be online and responsive between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily, even during paid time off, holidays, and weekends. This expectation of constant connectivity, the suit argues, created an unsustainable and discriminatory work environment.
Prior to joining Insight Partners, Lowry's professional background included positions at Meta, McKinsey Company, and an early-stage startup. Insight Partners, a global venture capital and private equity firm, focuses on investing in high-growth technology, software, and internet businesses. The firm has backed companies across various sectors, providing capital and operational support to scale their operations.
The legal action raises questions about work-life balance and employee treatment within the high-pressure venture capital industry. The demand for constant availability, often facilitated by mobile devices and remote work tools, has become a point of contention in many sectors, particularly those requiring significant client interaction or deal-making activity. The lawsuit could potentially impact industry standards regarding employee expectations and the enforcement of labor laws within venture capital firms.
Insight Partners did not immediately respond to TechCrunch's request for comment. The case is currently pending in the San Mateo County Superior Court, and the next steps will involve legal proceedings, including discovery and potential settlement negotiations. The outcome of the lawsuit could set a precedent for future employment disputes within the venture capital sector.
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