Is this ‘unfair’ as per the proper definition

[Kerzehmet]

My specialist role, within public sector. Has always required qualifications A, B or C as standard essential criteria. I do not have A B or C.

However, a few years ago, qualification D was added. I have D. I applied and was successful and was among the first group of people to join following this new qualification being added.

I am now about to apply for the next grade up. This role still only has A B or C as its essential criteria. D has not been added and I have been told that my D qualification is insufficient and I cannot apply.

While I feel this is completely unfair on a personal level (!), I would like to know if this would be considered ‘unfair’ in an employment context. It puts me, and any other people at the same grade who joined with me or after me, at a disadvantage.

I think I have explained this properly and with enough information - I would be interested in HR people’s thoughts on this. Thank you.

What makes you think I didn't read it?

If OP doesn't have A,B or C how can it have been essential criteria?

For the job the OP got you can have A or you can have B or you can have C or you can have D. It isn't saying you must have all four A, B, C and D

It is quite clear that you did not read and understand it as OP says in the 2nd paragraph
'However, a few years ago, qualification D was added. I have D. I applied and was successful and was among the first group of people to join following this new qualification being added'
The D being added meant theat applicants needed One of A,B,C or D at the point OP applied.

It's pretty clear that previously A,B or C were the essential qualifications but then they added D as an alternative. And OP has D and hence has one of the appropriate qualifications (ie from one of A,B,C and D) for her current role.

Ahh ok.

It wasn't pretty clear to me but thanks all for clearing it up 👍

@rainbowunicorn not reading something and not understanding it are often two very different things.

It is a different role to yours
and one that you aren’t qualified for
the end

Sorry OP, it’s no unfair. Frustrating for you, but you don’t have the qualifications needed for the more senior role. Your only option is to study for the A, B or C qualifications so as to progress your career. I’d also suggest looking at roles above this one and see which ones are needed for the most senior roles so you’re not precluded again (ie for being in a leadership role, is A qualification only needed, if so study for that one).

Why not focus on getting one of qualifications A, B or C? It’s not unusual for certain types of more senior role to require qualifications or skills not required for the roles beneath them.