“They couldn’t go to HR because that was internal and controlled by senior figures at Harrods, so the only place left to go was the press.” – Dean Armstrong, Personnel Today
More than 20 former female employees reported being sexually assaulted or raped by Al Fayed during their time at Harrods. These victims had no safe space to turn to within HR, as those responsible for investigating were under the influence of senior figures who encouraged cover-ups and dismissed their claims. Left with no other recourse, they had to take their stories to the press.
How can victims of abuse ever feel protected when HR—the function designed to safeguard them - is instead aligning with abusers? Sexual harassment in the workplace should never be tolerated under any circumstance and It's time HR leaders stop reinforcing the voices of power when that power is being abused. HR’s role is not to protect the status quo, but to challenge it when necessary - especially when employees are being harmed..
On Tuesday, 26 November, we will be hosting an exclusive pre-summit at the Hyatt London Blackfriars, where we’ll explore how HR Leaders can reclaim their role with courage and credibility. The recent scandals at the BBC, involving Huw Edwards, the CBI sexual harassment cases, and countless others, highlight how HR has lost its way, too often silenced by power, and now it’s time to set a new standard.
HR should never take sides - neither that of the employer nor the employee. Instead, it must stand for truth and objectivity, upholding high standards and values for the benefit of the entire organisation. HR's true purpose is to serve the company as a whole, ensuring fairness, equity, and safety for all.
With the Worker Protection Act coming into effect on26 October 2024, which mandates employers to take ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent workplace harassment, the role of HR has never been more critical. This shift in law reminds us that protecting everyone isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a moral one. HR must rise above the pressures of safeguarding corporate images and commit to creating safe, work environments where people feel able to speak up.
At CCPO, we believe in cultivating Courageous Chief People Officers - HR leaders who are willing to challenge the status quo, advocate for change, and ensure no one is silenced. The change begins with you.
Let’s reclaim HR’s purpose and lead with the courage to do what’s right. Join us as we start this important conversation at our pre-summit on 26 November. The time for change is now.
Request your invitation today.
