An internal Ford investigation found that his behavior was in violation of the company’s code of conduct.
Ford North America President Raj Nair will leave the automobile giant following accusations of “inappropriate behavior.
The announcement of the departure of Nair, an Indian American, came after an internal investigation report released on Wednesday found that his behavior was in violation of the company’s code of conduct.
Nair has been advised by Ford to leave the company at the earliest. Ford is yet to announce his replacement.
“We made this decision after a thorough review and careful consideration,” said Ford President and CEO Jim Hackett. “Ford is deeply committed to providing and nurturing a safe and respectful culture and we expect our leaders to fully uphold these values.”
Ford, the second largest automobile company in the US, saw a lull its shares in the after hour trading on Wednesday.
Nair has been serving as an executive vice president and president of North America, Ford Motor Company, from June 1, 2017. In this role, he was responsible for leading all aspects of Ford’s North American business units.
Previously, Nair was executive vice president, Product Development, and chief technical officer (CTO), a position he held since December 1, 2015. Besides North America, Nair also has worked on assignments in Europe, South America, and the Asia Pacific.
“I sincerely regret that there have been instances where I have not exhibited leadership behaviors consistent with the principles that the Company and I have always espoused,” Nair said, in a press release. “I continue to have the utmost faith in the people of Ford Motor Company and wish them continued success in the future.”
Nair holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with an automotive specialty from Kettering University in Flint, Mich. He was the recipient of the 2012 Kettering Alumni Award for Management Achievement.
In 2014, he was named the Fortune Automotive Businessperson of the Year. In addition to his responsibilities at Ford, Nair serves on the board of trustees of Kettering University.