Compass dismisses 3 executives

On 21 October Compass announced that it had instructed Freshfields to conduct an investigation into the relationships between ESS, IHC and the United Nations. Ernst & Young are assisting Freshfields in this investigation.

The investigation, which is continuing, is being overseen by Steve Lucas, Chairman of Compass’s Audit Committee. The investigation has raised serious concerns as to whether, within ESS, there has been, in connection with IHC and the UN, improper conduct and a failure to comply with the Company’s statement of business principles (which apply to all staff, whatever their seniority). As a result, Peter Harris, whose suspension was announced on 21 October, is being dismissed, together with Andrew Seiwert and a further mid-ranking executive who was associated with UN contracting. The management of ESS is being restructured.

Compass will be continuing to cooperate voluntarily and fully as appropriate with the UN and US authorities, including the Office of the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.