Ted Baker has concluded an investigation into harassment allegations levelled at founder Ray Kelvin, which identified “several areas for improvement” in the retailer’s HR practices.
The probe, carried out by Herbert Smith Freehills, focused on the company’s policies, procedures and handling of HR-related complaints.
Kelvin was forced to take a leave of absence following allegations of harassment amid claims that he enforced a “hugging” culture at the company.
Accusations were also made that he massaged employees, kissed their ears and asked some to sit on his lap.
Following interviews with current and former employees, the law firm identified “several areas for improvement in the company’s HR policies and procedures”.
As a result, Ted Baker has begun a “refresh of its HR policies to ensure their alignment with current best practice”.
However, the company will not be making any comment on the specific allegations which were made against Kelvin, agreed to resign as chief executive and as a director of the retail chain.
Chairman David Bernstein said: “We are determined to learn from this process and, moving forward, cultivate a better environment for all employees where they always feel respected and valued.
“We are implementing changes and improvements and are committed to developing best-practice HR policies and procedures that reflect the Ted culture we are looking to develop and enhance in the future.”
Ted Baker also announced that Lindsay Page will become its new chief executive with immediate effect following Kelvin’s departure earlier this year.