The board of the Financial Markets Authority says it has “recently become aware of cultural concerns at the FMA and is assessing the matters raised as a matter of urgency.”
The statement from acting board Chair, Steven Bardy, says that Chief Executive Samantha Barrass “is on a period of leave.”
“During this time, board member Alastair Hercus will step into the role of interim Chief Executive.”
Earlier this week mainstream media had reported allegations regarding the authority’s workplace culture.
In May the FMA announced Barrass would not be seeking reappointment when her five-year term ended (see: FMA Chief Executive Not Seeking Reappointment).
Earlier that month FMA Chair, Craig Stobo had resigned following the completion of an independent review which found aspects of his public commentary “…did not meet the standards of political neutrality…”(see: FMA Chair Resigns).