Citigroup Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Sexual Harassment by Top Wealth Executive

Citigroup is facing a new lawsuit after a former managing director accused the bank of forcing her out following alleged sexual harassment by a senior executive. The complaint, filed Monday in Manhattan federal court, was brought by Julia Carreon, who previously served as Citigroup’s global head of platform and experiences.

According to the lawsuit, Carreon alleges that Andy Sieg, who oversees Citigroup’s wealth management unit and is one of the bank’s most high-profile executives, subjected her to persistent sexual harassment, manipulation, and grooming after initially supporting her career. Carreon said Sieg helped her secure a promotion shortly after he joined the bank in October 2023, but his behavior soon shifted into what she described as an “unrelenting and egregious” pattern of misconduct.

Carreon claims she was treated differently than her male colleagues, alleging Sieg frequently called and texted her, insisted she sit close to him during meetings, and shared confidential information. She also alleged that Sieg insinuated to others that they had an intimate relationship, including referencing a “secret song” they supposedly shared, creating discomfort among coworkers. Sieg is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

The complaint further accuses Citigroup’s human resources department of acting to protect senior leadership rather than investigate her claims fairly. Carreon alleges HR launched its own campaign against her, investigating what she says were false allegations of bullying and claims that her career advancement was tied to inappropriate access to Sieg. She ultimately left the bank in June 2024.

Citigroup denied the allegations, stating the lawsuit has “absolutely no merit” and that the bank will defend itself through the legal process. Lawyers for Carreon did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for alleged racial discrimination under federal law, as well as racial and sexual discrimination under New York state and city laws. The case adds to ongoing scrutiny of Citigroup’s workplace culture, as the bank is also defending against a separate lawsuit by another managing director alleging sexual harassment and gender discrimination.

Citigroup, the third-largest U.S. bank by assets and the largest led by a woman, has faced increased attention over executive conduct following prior media reports that Sieg intimidated and sidelined employees.