Is this Ageism? (Job Interview)

[ladylovesmilktray]

I recently interview for a job and just got this emailed response.

Thanks for interviewing with the team earlier this week for the above position. Unfortunately on this occasion we've decided to go with someone else for this role.

Although the team were really impressed with both your experience and the ideas you mentioned (particularly in regards to XXX), we've decided to go with someone who is more of a younger, up and coming voice which meets certain strategic organisational goals for us.

I am annoyed I ever went for the job and wish they hadn't shortlisted me in the first place though I imagine this could have been classed as discrimination.

AIBU to think this is overt age discriminination? Or I am just feeling sour grapes (and like a bitter old hag)?

There are (plenty) situations where age discrimination is legal. I can't remember the exact context... don't think this is one of them, though.
They can as long as they can argue there is a genuine occupational requirement (such as a chaplaincy position having a genuine occupational requirement to be Christian,).

The only ones I can think of for age off the top of my head might be over 18 to sell specific products.

@EveryDayIsADuvetDay

A chairman said to me at interview "well I don't want someone that's going to start and then get pregnant, and you're obviously too old for that."

£9.5k
ka-ching

@EveryDayIsADuvetDay How did you prove that's what he'd said? I had a meeting with my boss after Christmas and he said the most awful sexist comment (he's 70s although it's no excuse) but surely it would be my word against his

@MissSmiley the burden of proof is on the employer, not the employee in these cases usually.