The managing director of Harrods, Michael Ward, has issued an apology in response to sexual misconduct allegations against the department store’s former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. Ward stated that Fayed presided over a toxic culture of secrecy, intimidation, fear of repercussion, and sexual misconduct. He expressed deep regret for failing their colleagues and emphasized that he was not aware of Fayed’s criminality and abuse during his time working for him.
Multiple women have come forward with allegations of rape and sexual misconduct against Fayed, who passed away last year at the age of 94. Ward confirmed that an independent review is underway to address the issues arising from the allegations. He urged former colleagues to come forward using a settlement process established by the business in consultation with external experts in personal injury litigation.
Harrods has accepted vicarious liability for Fayed’s conduct for the purpose of settling claims brought to its attention since 2023, with settlements reached with the majority of alleged victims. Ward reassured that he would not influence the independent review being conducted by a non-executive committee of the board. He has also stepped back from his charity trustee positions while the review takes place.
Ward emphasized that the Harrods of today is unrecognizable compared to the toxic culture under Fayed’s ownership. The business is committed to providing support and recourse to those affected by the alleged misconduct.
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