Deloitte ‘diversity and inclusion’ chief Dimple Agarwal resigns over bullying allegations

Deloitte’s deputy UK chief has quit her leadership roles at the firm a day after The Telegraph revealed she was under investigation over accusations of bullying and inappropriate working practices.

The Big Four accountant confirmed on Friday morning that Ms Agarwal, its diversity and inclusion champion, will give up her roles as deputy chief executive and head of people and purpose. 

Ms Agarwal, 49, was the subject of complaints from distressed staff over allegations she was aggressive towards them on calls and in emails and that she demanded they work long hours, with calls before dawn and late at night. 

Since taking up the role as head of people and purpose in Europe, Ms Agarwal has led the firm’s drive on diversity and inclusion, including campaigns on parental leave, mental wellbeing and ethnic and gender equality. 

Richard Houston,  Deloitte’s UK chief executive, said: “After two years on the executive and making a significant contribution to the firm’s people and purpose agenda, Dimple will be stepping down from her leadership roles. We’re grateful for what she’s achieved during her tenure.” 

Confirming Ms Agarwal’s resignation from the plum roles in an email to staff after the investigation was revealed by The Telegraph, he told employees: “The media coverage will attract scrutiny of our firm and I fully expect that you will have questions or concerns.

“I cannot comment on any of the allegations contained in the article. But, as I have consistently made clear, I’m absolutely committed to ensuring that everyone in our firm is treated with respect, and I will not tolerate behaviours or actions that are inconsistent with our global shared values.”

A person close to Deloitte management said: “We have a zero tolerance approach to bullying and harassment of any kind across the firm. 

“We have worked hard to build a culture that encourages our people to speak up and raise concerns – and have the routes to do so – without fear of career penalty or other reprisal.”