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The Coldplay Concert scandal has cemented one thing for sure: Workplace romances are huge red flags!
With corporate culture capturing the world’s attention, it is perfectly fine for employees to set boundaries, and companies are taking a firm stance against romantic involvement at work.
Yes, while we and the world agree on the need for a healthy work-life balance, some recent incidents have shown how workplace affairs can be disastrous not only for professional careers, but also against a company’s code of conduct.
CEOs Kicked Out Of Office, Workplace Romance A Big NO-NO?
No, having romantic relationships isn’t a crime. However, having an affair at the workplace, especially with someone subordinate or a colleague, raises serious questions of ethics and corporate policy.
The year 2025 has already a few high-profile CEOs getting fired from top leadership positions and losing their jobs due to this very reason.
From Astronomer’s Andy Byron to Nestlé’s Laurent Freixe, here are the three CEOs who lost their jobs over workplace affairs.
#1. Nestlé’s Laurent Freixe And His Undisclosed Linkup
After a steady position as the CEO of one of the biggest FMCG groups, Nestlé, Laurent Freixe came under scrutiny over his undisclosed romantic relationship with someone who’s his direct subordinate.
The company was made aware of the situation, all thanks to a whistleblower. An immediate investigation was drawn up, and an external legal counsel also set up.
Since their linkup directly violated the company’s code of conduct, Laurent was immediately removed from the position. Reports suggest that he was offered no exit package.
Brutal.
#2. A Coldplay Concert That Turned Brutal For Astronomer’s Andy Byron
The massive scandal following Astronomer CEO Andy Byron’s kiss cam moment with Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot needs no introduction!
As the moment caught on camera went viral and quickly spiraled out of control across social media. The corporate magnate was forced to initiate an investigation.
One must not forget that Andy and Kristin’s marital status fueled even more speculation and controversy. Questions about broken marriages and cheating were also raised.
What happened next? A stern LinkedIn message from Astronomer Inc. officially confirmed the resignations of the “leaders who were expected but failed to set a standard in both conduct and accountability”.
#3. Not-So-Romantic Deal Turns Ugly For Kohl’s CEO Ashley Buchanan
Ashley Buchanan, the former CEO for Kohl’s lost his job after securing deals with a vendor through personal relationships.
Following an ugly revelation, the company fired him after Buchanan failed to disclose the exact nature of relationship he had with the vendor.
Moreover, according to the whistleblower, the transactions between Ashley and the vendor were conducted on entirely unrelated terms, raising concerns of favoritism and bias overall.
What are your thoughts on workplace romances? Don’t forget to let us know in the comments!