Bill Michael, former KPMG UK Chairman, stirred controversy with his remarks during a virtual town hall meeting. His comments, which included telling staff to “stop moaning” about the pandemic and dismissing unconscious bias as “complete and utter crap”, led to his resignation. The incident highlighted the potential pitfalls of video meetings, where off-the-cuff remarks can be recorded and shared widely.
In the pre-pandemic era, such comments may have been forgotten or dismissed, but the digital age has increased the risk of reputational damage. The incident also underscores the need for leaders to be more sensitive and empathetic, especially during a crisis.
The incident has sparked a debate about the culture within KPMG and the wider professional services industry. Some argue that it reflects a broader issue of a lack of empathy and understanding from senior leaders, while others believe it was a one-off incident.
Regardless of the debate, the incident is a stark reminder of the importance of choosing words carefully, particularly in a digital environment where comments can be easily recorded and shared. It also highlights the need for leaders to be aware of the potential consequences of their words and actions.
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