BBC Breakfast boss Richard Frediani takes extended leave over bullying claims
BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani is to take an extended period of leave after bullying allegations were made against him.
It comes after industry publication Deadline reported complaints over Mr Frediani's conduct. Allegations reported by Deadline included shouting and swearing at colleagues. The publication also reported that a woman had her grievance upheld after claiming that Mr Frediani physically shook her in the newsroom.
Media outlets also reported that an internal investigation is being carried out into the allegations. A BBC spokesperson said: "While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values.
"We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed."
BBC News reported that an HR advisor from the consultancy firm PwC has been brought in to support the BBC's investigation into the culture of the broadcaster's flagship morning programme.
PwC has declined to comment.
Mr Frediani joined the award-winning show, produced in Salford, in 2019. His role was later extended to producing News at One last year.
Before joining the BBC, Mr Frediani worked for ITN, where he held senior roles on the team that produces ITV News.
He accepted the Bafta Award in May for best TV news coverage of the Post Office scandal.
In April an independent review into the BBC found there was not a "toxic culture" but reforms where needed to take quicker action against staff who step out of line.
At the time BBC chairman Samir Shah told presenters: "After today, let me state it clearly, if you think you're too big a star or too important to live by the values of this organisation, not only are you wrong, but we will find you out."
He also said he would draw "a line in the sand".
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