Harassment troubles for diversity boss

A government-backed organisation set up to promote diversity in the workplace, Diversity Works, has paid out a staff member after a complaint was made against its chief executive, Rachel Hopkins.

Diversity Works chairman Michael Barnett, who is also chairman of the Auckland Regional Chamber of Commerce, confirmed the matter had been dealt with internally but later refused to answer further questions.

The complaint had been laid by a former diversity manager at the organisation, Fia Collins, and alleged ‘‘bullying, harassment and cultural insensitivity’’ by Hopkins. Collins was paid out about $100,000, the New Zealand Herald reported.

Hopkins, who was appointed chief executive of Diversity Works in April, has been approached for comment.

Collins was employed by Diversity Works until December.

Diversity Works posted a note on its website that month saying it was ‘‘sad to farewell’’ Collins.

‘‘Fia has been a committed and passionate member of the team and we’re grateful for her contribution to diversity and inclusion.’’

Diversity Works describes itself as a national membership organisation ‘‘here to help business develop diverse and inclusive workplaces’’.

Its partners include the State Services Commission, Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Ma¯ ori Affairs, as well as private companies Coca-Cola Amatil, Russell McVeagh and Vodafone.

The chief executives of Inland Revenue, the Defence Ministry, the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Ma¯ ori Affairs also sit on its 10-person board of directors.