David Jones boss quits over sexual harassment

The boss of Australian department store giant David Jones has quit after a sexual harassment complaint from a staff member.

David Jones CEO Mark McInnes resigned after the complaint from an unidentified female staff member, whom The Australian reported was a 25-year-old who works in the head office marketing department.

In a statement to the Australian stock market, Mr McInnes wrote: "At two recent company functions I behaved in a manner unbecoming of the high standard expected of a chief executive officer to a female staff member.

"As a result of this conduct, I have offered my resignation to the David Jones board and we have agreed on the mutual termination of my employment with the company, effective immediately.

"As a chief executive officer and as a person, I have a responsibility to many, and today I formally acknowledge that I have committed serious errors of judgment and have inexcusably let down the female staff member. I have also let down my partner, my family, all my staff, the board and our shareholders. I apologise to everyone I have let down.

"In resigning immediately it is my hope that I will minimise the impact of my errors of judgment on all and on David Jones, a company I have been proud to be employed by for 13 years and have had the honour of leading for the last 7 years.

"I would like to thank my colleagues for their support during my time with the company. I am very sorry to be leaving in these circumstances and wish all involved with David Jones continued success.

"My partner and I will be overseas for the foreseeable future."

- NZ Herald staff