- Partner, from South Australia, left the firm after the investigation against him
- It is the second time a claim of sexual harassment has been made against a partner of a big four firm
- A separate investigation was launched into a sexual harassment claim made against the managing partner of rival firm Ernst & Young’s Adelaide office
The accounting and consulting industry is in turmoil after a second claim of sexual harassment was made against a partner of a big four firm.
The KPMG partner, from South Australia, left the firm following an investigation into a claim of sexual harassment against him, the AFR reported.
KPMG chief executive Gary Wingrove issued a statement in which he warned all staff and partners the company would not tolerate predatory behaviour.
The accounting and consulting industry is in turmoil after a second claim of sexual harassment was made against a partner of a big four firm (stock image)
‘I confirm that an incident involving a breach of our code of conduct and policies was reported late last year in our South Australian office,’ Mr Wingrove said.
‘KPMG fully investigated and promptly addressed the matter. The individual responsible no longer works for the firm.’
Mr Wingrove urged his staff to report any inappropriate behaviour.
The case came to light after a separate investigation was launched into a sexual harassment claim made by a junior female staff member against the managing partner of rival firm Ernst & Young’s Adelaide office, the paper reported. The managing partner in question has denied the allegation.
The duo have since been suspended with full as an inquiry enters its third month.
The KPMG partner, from South Australia, left the firm following an investigation into a claim of sexual harassment against him (stock image)
Ernst & Young boss Tony Johnson issued emails to partners and staff demanding leaders of the firm conform to behavioural standards.
‘I expect an even higher standard of behaviour from our partners, given they are the owners and senior leaders of the firm,’ the email read.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted KPMG and Ernst & Young for comment.