Case Study
The following account is based on a recent case that Hawthorne Risk worked on, involving sensitive and confidential matters. While the essence of the case and the strategies employed are drawn from real-life scenarios, certain details, names, and information have been altered to safeguard the anonymity and privacy of the client. This disclaimer is intended to ensure the protection of our client's interests and maintain the confidentiality of their involvement in the case.
High Risk Termination
of a C-Suite Executive
CLIENT: A Multinational Heavy Construction Company
CHALLENGE: Terminating a CEO with a history of violence after exhibiting inappropriate behavior
OVERVIEW:
A prominent multinational heavy construction company faced a challenging and high-stakes situation: their CEO had began to exhibit increasingly concerning and inappropriate behavior towards staff and it was discovered that he had a previously unknown history of violence including prior arrests for a number of felony offenses including an attempted murder charge. Given the potential for volatile reactions and the need to ensure the safety of all involved, the company engaged Hawthorne Risk to manage the high-risk termination process while protecting the safety of both people and assets.
SOLUTION
1. Risk Assessment and Planning
Our team began with a thorough risk assessment to understand the full scope of the CEO's history and the potential threats. This involved:
- Conducting background checks to gather comprehensive information on the CEO's past behavior.
- Interviewing key stakeholders within the company to assess the immediate risks and the CEO's current state of mind.
- Utilizing our network of experts to develop a detailed behavioral profile and using that to create a termination plan that included security measures, communication strategies, and contingency plans.
2. Coordinated Security Measures
Given the CEO's history of violence, it was critical to ensure the safety of all parties involved in the termination process. Our threat management team implemented the following measures:
- Developing a plan to lure the CEO to an offsite meeting. Securing the premises where the termination meeting would take place.
- Deploying clandestine personnel to monitor the CEO’s movements and behavior before, during, and after the termination.
- Arranging for repossession agents, law enforcement and immigration officials to assist with the CEO’s post-termination to prevent any immediate retaliation or escalation and to withdraw his company-sponsored work visa, as he was not a US citizen.
3. Strategic Communication
Effective communication was key to managing the termination process smoothly. Our team:
- Worked closely with the company's HR and legal departments to ensure all communication was clear, legal, and respectful.
- Briefed the company's leadership on the planned approach, ensuring they were prepared to handle any immediate reactions.
- Facilitated a controlled and private meeting where the CEO was informed of his termination, with security personnel and law enforcement on standby.
4. Post-Termination Support
To mitigate any potential fallout from the termination, Hawthorne Risk provided ongoing support:
- Monitoring the CEO’s activities and communications for any signs of retaliation or legal action.
- Acting as the company’s representative for all communications with the terminated CEO.
- Advising the company on security recommendations and internal communication to reassure staff and stakeholders.
OUTCOME
The high-risk termination was executed without incident, thanks to the meticulous planning and coordinated efforts of our teams. The CEO accepted the termination and left the premises without causing any disruption. The company experienced minimal operational impact and was able to continue its activities smoothly.
CLIENT FEEDBACK
The client expressed profound relief and satisfaction with the outcome. They appreciated our professionalism, the thoroughness of our risk assessment, and the discreet but effective security measures that ensured the safety and well-being of their staff.
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“I was surprised by the unexpected confidence I felt when working with Hawthorne Risk to let go of a C-Suite employee. Their expertise and professionalism were instrumental in handling the termination processes, leading to a smooth transition and minimal negative impact on the team and the company. Their ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and tact was a game-changer, making the process easier for everyone involved. I confidently recommend Hawthorne Risk to anyone seeking efficient termination management services, knowing they will deliver positive outcomes.”
CONCLUSION
This case study exemplifies Hawthorne Risk's expertise in facilitating high-risk terminations, particularly involving individuals with a history of violence, volatile behavior and mental illness. Our comprehensive approach, combining risk assessment, strategic planning, and robust security measures, ensures that our clients can navigate even the most challenging situations with confidence and minimal disruption.
For more information on our termination management services and how we can assist your organization, please contact us today.
