New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has pledged to address concerns over a toxic work environment and bullying behind the scenes in the Blues’ marketing department.
The New York Times recently claimed to have spoken with numerous staff members and
unearthed accusations of bullying and aggressive management from those in charge,
as well as questions over the suicide of former employee Richard Bignell, who was sacked four months before taking his own life in January.
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The concerns are believed to have been passed to Chelsea’s former ownership board,
which included Marina Granovskaia and Bruce Buck, but employees were left disappointed with the lack of reaction.
With Boehly now in charge and leading a boardroom overhaul which is expected to include the arrival of Tom Glick, the new owner has vowed to address any existing issues.
The Guardian state that Boehly has promised a full investigation and a new external review team have already been appointed to oversee the change.
“The physical and mental health and wellbeing of all of our people is paramount,” Boehly wrote in a letter to staff.
“Our mission is to create a workplace environment that empowers everyone to be safe, included, valued and trusted.
We will work tirelessly to set and achieve the highest standards.”
In response to the initial investigation, a Chelsea statement read:
“The club’s new board believes strongly in a workplace environment and corporate culture that empowers its employees and ensures they feel safe, included, valued and trusted.
Initial steps have been taken by the new owners to instil an environment consistent with our values.
“Our heart goes out to Richard’s entire family. His passing has been deeply felt by his colleagues at the club and across the football community.
“The club has appointed an external review team to investigate the allegations that have been made under previous ownership.
Upon learning about the circumstances, new ownership has proactively reached out to Richard’s family through their counsel.”
