Staffing

McDonald's Easterbook investigation prompts questions about other executives, HR

Image: iStock

August 26, 2020

McDonald's is investigating its human resources department's actions, as well as claims from within its ranks that former CEO Steve Easterbrook might have failed to divulge inappropriate acts by other executives at the Chicago-based QSR during his time leading the company, according to Bloomberg.

McDonald's recently filed suit against Easterbrook seeking the $40 million compensation it had paid the former CEO when he left the company last November after an employee said she had a consensual relationship with him, violating company policy.

Then, just last month, the company received word that another employee had a relationship with Easterbrook, which triggered a second investigation that the company said uncovered numerous "Nude, partially nude, or sexually explicit photographs and videos of various women" including company employees, according to the Delaware state court lawsuit against him.

This afternoon, McDonald's responded to a request for comment about the latest developments, with this statement:

"Our board and CEO are committed to leading with integrity. We know actions speak louder than words. Since being appointed CEO in November, Chris (Kempczinski) has installed a new chief people officer, announced refreshed values with input from employees around the world and has committed to making these values part of everything we do. We will continue to make changes, where necessary, to support all parts of our organization."

Regarding the current probes, the company said simply that it would "follow the facts wherever they may lead."