CEO Kicks Dog and Then Resigns
Video cameras are everywhere, so watch what you do in an elevator. The CEO of sports catering company Centerplate learned this lesson when a video of him kicking his friend's dog went viral. At one point, we see him pulling the dog up by the leash.
Desmond Hague apologized and promised to do 100 hours of community service:
"I take full responsibility for my actions, this incident is completely and utterly out of character and I am ashamed and deeply embarrassed. Under the circumstances of the evening in question, a minor frustration with a friend's pet caused me to lose control of my emotional response. Unfortunately, I acted inappropriately, and I am deeply sorry for that and am very grateful that no harm was caused to the animal. I have reached out to the SPCA and have personally apologized to the dog's owner. At this time, I would like to extend my apology to my family, company and clients, as I understand that this has also reflected negatively on them."
The apology didn't stop criticism of Centerplate, and Hague decided to resign (or was asked for his resignation). In a statement on its website, Centerplate announced Hague's resignation and temporary replacement:
Chris Verros Named Acting President and CEO Following Resignation of Desmond Hague
Centerplate's board of directors announced today that Chris Verros has been appointed to the role of acting president and chief executive officer, effective immediately, following the resignation of Desmond Hague from the company. The decision comes as a result of Hague's personal misconduct involving the mistreatment of an animal in his care.
"We want to reiterate that we do not condone nor would we ever overlook the abuse of animals," said Joe O'Donnell, chairman of the board of directors for Centerplate. "Following an extended review of the incident involving Mr. Hague, I'd like to apologize for the distress that this situation has caused to so many; but also thank our employees, clients and guests who expressed their feelings about this incident. Their voices helped us to frame our deliberations during this very unusual and unfortunate set of circumstances."
Chris Verros assumes the new role with more than 35 years of experience and a reputation as one of the industry's most respected leaders. Chief Operating Officer for Centerplate since 2010, he helped the company to achieve unprecedented growth. Prior to joining Centerplate, Verros was Executive Vice President of Boston Culinary Group and previously served as a Group President of Fine Host Corporation, following the 1993 acquisition of FanFare, Inc., a company he co-founded in 1986.
"I have been proud to work with Chris for more than 20 years, and feel that Centerplate is incredibly fortunate to have such a strong leader who can step into the role immediately," O'Donnell added, "This past week has been very difficult for our company, our employees and our clients in particular, and I have no doubt that Chris' experience, vision, integrity, and commitment to our values and mission will help us all move forward together."
Discussion Starters:
- Why would Hague resign from Centerplate? What does this incident have to do with his job performance?
- Assess Centerplate's statement: word choice, tone, organization, and so on. Comment, particularly, on how quotations are used.