RBC CFO and undisclosed relationships in the workplace: Employment lawyer on CTV News

Interview Summary

The CFO of RBC was recently let go from employment after it was discovered she had engaged in an undisclosed relationship with another colleague. A workplace investigation concluded preferential treatment was given to the colleague, including salary increases. What can employees in a workplace relationship do to protect their rights? How should employers navigate office romances?

Alex Lucifero, an Ontario employment lawyer and Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP joined CTV News Ottawa to discuss employee relationships and employer obligations.

Interview Notes

• Legality of workplace relationships: Romantic relationships are not necessarily illegal, Lucifero explained. “I don’t think it’s a good idea for employers to ban relationships outright in the workplace.” Lucifero believes this will ensure office romances will be kept secret and undisclosed.
• Conflict of interest and terminations: While Lucifero stated it is difficult to terminate employees “for cause” due to a workplace relationship, it is important to bear in mind potential conflicts of interest. “Every employer should have a policy about romantic relationships in the office. Step one of the policy should be disclosing relationships to deal with them honestly and openly.” Lucifero reiterated the importance of policies containing conflict of interest provisions, particularly regarding managers and subordinates.
• Advice to employees despite no policy: “I think it is a good idea to be open and honest with your employer. It does come with a degree of risk,” Lucifero stated. Employers are still able to terminate an employee without cause however severance would be owed.

Related Resources

For further insights and discussions related to workplace relationships explore the following resources:

• Workplace relationships
• Mayor John Tory resigns over workplace romance