This summary highlights a recent statement by Harrods’ managing director Michael Ward concerning past allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed.
- Michael Ward, Harrods’ managing director, has apologised over the company’s past shortcomings in protecting female employees from Mohamed Al Fayed.
- Despite public rumours, no formal allegations of misconduct by Al Fayed were made to Ward during his tenure.
- Harrods has initiated a support mechanism for potential victims seeking compensation without prolonged legal procedures.
- A review into whether current staff were complicit in any abuse during Al Fayed’s ownership is underway.
Michael Ward, the managing director of Harrods, has openly addressed the serious allegations of sexual misconduct against the former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. Between 2005 and 2010, Ward was employed under Al Fayed’s leadership. In his statement, Ward expressed his deep regret for Harrods’ failure to adequately protect its female employees. He acknowledged the courage of survivors who have come forward with their accounts of the abuse suffered.
Ward clarified that while rumours were present in the public domain, no official charges or allegations were communicated to him by law enforcement or through internal channels during his time at Harrods. He assured that he would have taken immediate action if such information had been presented to him.
This statement was released following the BBC’s documentary and podcast ‘Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods’, which brought to light testimonies from female employees who endured misconduct during Al Fayed’s 25-year ownership of the prestigious department store.
In response to the revelations, Harrods has proactively established a webpage for current and former employees to report instances of sexual misconduct linked to Al Fayed. The aim is to facilitate compensation for victims in a timely manner, thereby avoiding drawn-out legal battles.
Additionally, Harrods has launched an internal review to determine if any current employees were directly or indirectly involved in the misconduct. This initiative underscores the store’s commitment to rectifying past wrongs and ensuring a safe environment for all staff.
Mohamed Al Fayed, who passed away in August 2023, had purchased Harrods in 1985 and subsequently sold it to the Qatari Royal Family in 2010.
Harrods is actively addressing the historical allegations against its former owner, prioritising victim support and workplace integrity.
