Harrods MD Claims Ignorance of Fayed's Alleged Sexual Misconduct

Michael Ward, the managing director of Harrods, has stated he was "not aware" of the alleged predatory sexual abuse by former owner Mohamed Fayed. This claim comes in the wake of accusations from over 100 women following a BBC documentary about Fayed's alleged attacks.

Ward, who has held his position since 2005, is facing increasing pressure to disclose what he knew about the alleged incidents. In a written statement, he condemned his former employer, stating that Fayed presided "over a toxic culture of secrecy, intimidation, fear of repercussion and sexual misconduct."

The luxury retailer, founded in 1849 by Charles Henry Harrod, has a rich history spanning over 170 years. With its iconic 5-acre site housing more than 330 departments, Harrods has long been a symbol of British retail excellence. However, this legacy is now overshadowed by the serious allegations against its former owner.

Ward emphasized that an independent review is underway to investigate issues arising from the allegations. He stated, "As we have already stated, we failed our colleagues and for that we are deeply sorry." The managing director added that he has provided all relevant information to ensure his conduct can be reviewed alongside that of his colleagues.

Harrods, known for its motto "Omnia Omnibus Ubique" (All Things for All People, Everywhere), employs over 5,000 staff from 86 different nationalities. The store's vast retail space of 145,000 square meters includes unique features such as its own bank, real estate agent, and seven-room food halls covering 4,000 square meters.

Ward described Fayed's ownership period from 1985 to 2010 as a "shameful period in the business's history." He stated, "Fayed operated this business as his own personal fiefdom. It is now clear that he presided over a toxic culture of secrecy, intimidation, fear of repercussion and sexual misconduct."

In response to the allegations, Harrods has established a settlement process designed in consultation with independent experts in personal injury litigation. The company encourages former colleagues to come forward and seek support and recourse.

The store, which attracts over 300 million visitors annually, has faced challenges in the past, including an IRA bombing in 1983 that killed six people. However, the current allegations present a different kind of crisis for the iconic retailer.

Ward has stepped back from his charity trustee positions while the review is taking place. He emphasized that he will "in no way influence" the independent review's operation or recommendations.

Harrods, which was sold to Qatar Holdings in 2010 for £1.5 billion, is now conducting an internal review of its staff. This comes after a former employee alleged she was sexually assaulted by Fayed in 2008 and that a manager, who still works at the store, failed to investigate her complaint.

The store has confirmed it is "in direct communication" with the Metropolitan Police regarding the review. As Harrods navigates this challenging period, it remains to be seen how these allegations will impact its reputation and future operations.

"As someone who has worked at Harrods since 2006, and therefore worked for Fayed until the change of ownership in 2010, I feel it is important to make it clear that I was not aware of his criminality and abuse."

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on uncovering the truth and providing support to those affected by the alleged misconduct during Fayed's tenure at one of Britain's most iconic retail establishments.