It was recently reported that the former owner of Harrods, the famous English department store, selling fashion, food and homeware, was accused of rape and sexual assault by many former female employees. Harrods announced that it was currently in the process of settling more than 250 compensation claims from women alleging historical sexual misconduct by Al Fayed.
Now Jon Brilliant, a former Harrods director, claims that Mohamed Al Fayed manipulated managers to maintain control and conceal alleged abuses, removing those who resisted his influence.
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During his 18-month tenure in Al Fayed's private office, Brilliant alleges he received approximately $50,000 in cash gifts in envelopes, intended to compromise his integrity. Brilliant says he was fired for refusing to be "bought."
Brilliant, who joined Harrods in 2000, described a culture of surveillance and distrust. Managers were discouraged from collaborating, hindering their ability to independently assess Al Fayed's actions. Surveillance extended to private conversations, with Brilliant recounting incidents where phone discussions were quoted back to him. Other directors confirmed similar experiences, including warnings of bugged company-provided residences.
Harrods' organisational culture was likened to a "medieval court," where loyalty and internal rivalry dictated survival.
Harrods has previously distanced itself from Al Fayed, emphasising it operates under entirely different leadership today.
Source: www.bbc.com