Ford US president Raj Nair resigns after investigation into inappropriate behaviour

High-ranking executive apologises for behaviour “inconsistent” with company’s code of conduct.

Ford Executive Vice President Raj Nair has been ousted over allegations of unspecified inappropriate behaviour. Pic: AP.

FORD’S president for North America, Raj Nair, is leaving the company immediately after an internal investigation found his behaviour was “inconsistent with the company’s code of conduct”.

Ford did not give any details on what that behaviour entailed. A company spokesman said the review was launched in the past few weeks after Ford received a report of inappropriate behaviour.

Ford Executive Vice President Raj Nair addresses the North American International Auto show in Detroit earlier this year. Picture: AP.

Nair’s departure came after several high-profile business leaders quit or were fired following accusations of sexual misconduct.

“We made this decision after a thorough review and careful consideration,” said

Ford Chief Executive Jim Hackett in a statement.

“Ford is deeply committed to providing and nurturing a safe and respectful culture and we expect our leaders to fully uphold these values.”

Nair apologised, without elaborating.

Nair introduces the new Ford Ranger at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. Pic: AFP.

“I sincerely regret that there have been instances where I have not exhibited

leadership behaviours consistent with the principles that the Company and I have

always espoused,” Nair said in Ford’s statement.

Nair was appointed to his current position last May and had previously served as

Ford’s chief technical officer. He joined the company in 1987 and rose through

the automaker’s manufacturing and engineering ranks to become head of global

product development.

No room for harassment at Ford: President and CEO Jim Hackett. Pic: Ethan Miller, Getty Images/AFP.

In an open letter after the New York Times published a widely read article on

the matter, Hackett wrote “there is absolutely no room for harassment at Ford

Motor Company.”

“We don’t want you here, and we will move you out for engaging in any behaviour

like this,” he wrote.

Reuters