Todd Boehly vows to address this situation at Chelsea

Todd Boehly
Photo: Henry Browne/Getty Images

New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has vowed to address the situation of a toxic work environment at Chelsea.

There have been complains of bullying behind the scenes in the Blues’ marketing department, and The New York Times recently claimed to have spoken with numerous staff members and discovered accusations of bullying and aggressive management from those in charge.

The suicide of former employee Richard Bignell, who was sacked four months before taking his own life in January, has also been brought to the fore.

The report claims that the former board, which included Marina Granovskaia and Bruce Buck didn’t handle the situation, which left employees disappointed with the lack of reaction from the leadership.

Todd Boehly who has now taken charge of the board has also overseen a boardroom overhaul which is expected to include the arrival of Tom Glick.

The new owner has vowed to address any existing issues.

“The physical and mental health and wellbeing of all of our people is paramount,” Boehly wrote in a letter to staff.

“Our mission is to create a workplace environment that empowers everyone to be safe, included, valued and trusted. We will work tirelessly to set and achieve the highest standards.”

In response to the initial investigation, a Chelsea statement read: “The club’s new board believes strongly in a workplace environment and corporate culture that empowers its employees and ensures they feel safe, included, valued and trusted. Initial steps have been taken by the new owners to instil an environment consistent with our values.

“Our heart goes out to Richard’s entire family. His passing has been deeply felt by his colleagues at the club and across the football community.

“The club has appointed an external review team to investigate the allegations that have been made under previous ownership. Upon learning about the circumstances, new ownership has proactively reached out to Richard’s family through their counsel.”