Ernst & Young (EY), the British multinational accounting firm, has recently made headlines after dismissing several U.S.-based staff members who attended two online training sessions simultaneously.
The controversy centers around the company’s “EY Ignite Learning Week,” during which employees participated in various virtual training courses.
Background and The Firings at EY
In May, EY organized a week-long learning event, aiming to enhance employees’ skills and knowledge through online training sessions.
Some employees signed up for multiple courses concurrently, believing that multitasking was encouraged within the company’s culture.
EY determined that certain workers had taken more than one online course simultaneously, which it considered a breach of ethics and violation of its global code of conduct.
The firm took disciplinary action against these employees, resulting in their termination.
However, some of the dismissed workers argue that they were unaware of the policy against signing up for several classes at once.
The dismissed employees criticised EY’s work culture, suggesting it encourages multitasking.
One individual remarked, “If you are required to bill 45 hours a week while also handling many internal tasks, how can it not?”
Another former employee highlighted a partner who managed two client calls simultaneously, switching their camera on and off based on who they were speaking with.
They stated, “If this is considered unethical, then that behaviour is unethical too.”
Those defending their behavior pointed out that EY’s work environment often involves multitasking, with some employees using three monitors simultaneously.
Nevertheless, this argument did not sway the higher-ups.
Company Statement
The company underscores its commitment to integrity and ethics as laid in the company’s Code of Conduct and Learning Policy.
EY clarifies that it will take appropriate disciplinary measures in response to any breaches .
The company conducted a comprehensive investigation. Based on the investigation results, EY terminated a few individuals.
They were found to have violated both the Global Code of Conduct and the U.S. Learning Policy.
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