Best Buy Ex-CEO Reportedly Probed Over Female Staffer
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Denis Doyle/Bloomberg via Getty Images(MINNEAPOLIS) — An “inappropriate relationship” with a woman employee was behind the abrupt departure of Best Buy CEO Brian Dunn, the Star Tribune reported, citing a source close to the company.
The newspaper said that, Dunn, who is married, was being investigated by the board of directors for the use of company resources to carry out an inappropriate relationship. On Tuesday night, Best Buy said that Dunn stepped down before the conclusion of an investigation involving “personal conduct,” but no further details have been provided.
“We’re not commenting on any details of investigation,” a spokesperson for the board told ABC News. “The investigation is ongoing. We just don’t have any additional comment at this time. The board findings will be made public and appropriate action will be made at the time if warranted.”
The findings from the board are expected to be released within the next few weeks, a source told ABC News.
Dunn had a 28-year career at Best Buy Co., rising up from the sales floor to CEO before his abrupt resignation on Tuesday.
The news of a personal probe sent shock waves through the business community. Early on Tuesday, the company reported Dunn’s decision to step down was a “mutual agreement.” Only later did they disclose the probe.
The investigation was first reported by The Star Tribune of Minneapolis.
The departure of the company’s CEO comes at a time when it’s suffering as online competitors such as Amazon take a bite out of profit. In March, Best Buy announced restructuring plans after weak quarterly results. The chain made plans to trim 50 of its 1,100 stores and lay off another 400 employees to cut costs.
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