Overview
HR leaders frequently find themselves in situations that require tact and diplomacy. While most business
decisions can be made in a manner that manages potential conflicts, occasionally, there are serious
ethical and legal challenges to be navigated. C-Suite leaders must be able to address situations that do
not have an obviously “right” solution, that involve power struggles and confidences, and that involve
conflicting needs of multiple individuals and groups across the business.
HR leaders must understand the dual role they play, as advocates for employees and as strategic
partners to the C-Suite. Having a seat at the table frequently requires a nuanced approach to conflict
management, while still requiring a clear message to business leaders. HR leaders also need to know
when to bring a problem to the CEO, and when the issue should be dealt with at a lower level.
Scenario
Read the Assignment 4 Scenario Document provide in your course: it presents a complex ethical and
potentially legal challenge. Information has surfaced that may involve an ethical and/or legal violation, but
a fellow employee has asked you to keep it confidential. While the discussion with your coworker was
after hours and private, due to the potential gravity of the situation, you determine you must address this
with the CEO. You have made an appointment to meet with the CEO and are preparing for your meeting.
Instructions
Remember that a CEO is a busy person, so you must be concise.
Plan for 5 minutes speaking directly to
the CEO in his or her office. There will be no time for you to show a PowerPoint or present any visuals.
Prepare by making notes that outline your communication, including a short description of the ethical or
legal challenge from the scenario, clearly stated recommendations, and the rationale for your ideas.
Your communication must include the following:
• Explanation of the problem, including any legal issues or regulations involved
• Likely impacts on major stakeholder groups
• Outline of proposed actions
• Risk-reward assessment based on the actions proposed
• Communication plan to inform employees and the public about the problem and response
Organize your presentation as you wish, but you should imagine yourself walking into the CEO’s office,
closing the door and beginning your conversation with, “Something important has just come to my
attention that I need to discuss with you…”
Scenario: file:///C:/Users/Danielle.Prince/Downloads/JWI_522_Assignment_4_Scenario_1236.pdf