7th Dec 2018 16:46
LONDON (Alliance News) - Ted Baker PLC said Friday that its Founder & Chief Executive Ray Kelvin has agreed to take a voluntary leave of absence while an investigation into harassment claims against him takes place.
The upmarket's fashion retailer's board has appointed Chief Operating Officer Lindsay Page as acting CEO with immediate effect to cover the position while Kelvin remains on leave.
The company, which has established an independent committee of non-executive directors to ensure any concerns are carefully considered, said it has being made aware of "further serious allegations about the conduct of Kelvin", which the committed will now investigate.
The news follows reports by Sky News on Sunday revealing that the company's staff had launched a online petition to put an end to forced "hugging" and inappropriate touching and comments by Kelvin.
The complainants claimed Kelvin would give unwanted hugs, shoulder massages and kisses on the back of their ears at the company's London head office.
On Thursday, Ted Baker confirmed the appointment of Herbert Smith Freehills LLP to conduct an independent external investigation into the allegations.
Ted Baker shares were trading down 1.2% at 1,493.00 pence. They are down 19% this week following the reports.
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