Case Highlights The Reputational Damage That Can Be Caused By Employees

The suspension of high profile US news presenter Brian Williams from NBC demonstrates how crucial it is for organisations to have clear standards of conduct for all employees.

According to Chris Tutton at national law firm, Irwin Mitchell, the case highlights the reputational damage that can be caused to an employer following the actions of their staff. He also says that companies often fail to communicate their disciplinary procedures to their most senior employees despite the risks involved.

Brian Williams, the star news anchor for NBC, was suspended yesterday evening for six months without pay.

The suspension was announced following NBC’s finding that he gave a false account of coming under fire in a US military helicopter in Iraq. The revelations have damaged NBC’s ratings and credibility with viewers and unsurprisingly, Mr Williams’s reputation has come under fire in the media.

NBC has publicly condemned his actions leading to speculation as to whether he will ever return to the network.

On Tuesday, a statement from Steve Burke, NBC Universal Chief Executive Officer, said Williams had: "jeopardized the trust millions of Americans place in NBC News".

He added that: "His actions are inexcusable and this suspension is severe and appropriate."

Chris Tutton, an employment partner at Irwin Mitchell, said: