The chief executive of a prominent digital bank has issued a stern company-wide warning and dismissed a senior figure after an alleged 'mock act of terrorism' was staged in a photo booth during the firm's festive celebrations.
The Disturbing Incident at The Ivy
Details of the event, which took place at Ubank's Christmas function held at The Ivy venue in Sydney's CBD, were anonymously shared with the prominent business Instagram page The Aussie Corporate. An employee described a 'highly disturbing image' captured by a Merivale Photo Booth, involving an executive and a more junior colleague.
The staff member alleged the junior colleague wore a towel resembling a 'headdress' in what was perceived as 'an attempt to depict a terrorist'. The executive was photographed kneeling upright with hands behind their back, as if taken hostage, while the junior colleague stood over them, using both hands to form gun signs pointed at the executive.
Swift Action and Leadership Response
Ubank CEO Kanishka Raja confirmed the executive's departure in a statement to the Daily Mail on Tuesday, stating senior leaders are expected to 'model appropriate behaviour consistent with our policies'. He emphasised the company takes Code of Conduct matters 'extremely seriously', adding, 'We have investigated thoroughly and acted swiftly.'
This swift action was mirrored in an internal company Slack channel, where a terse message was posted following an 'All Hands' meeting. The message reminded staff of the 'importance of our brand and culture' and that the 'standards and consequences' of the Code of Conduct 'apply to everyone without exception'. It confirmed the individual had left Ubank and that recruitment for a replacement would commence.
Fallout and Wider Warnings
The incident caused significant discomfort among party attendees. One employee present stated, 'Lots of uncomfortable people at the party when they saw a team member in a head (towel) and gown.' They added that 'a few Jewish colleagues felt uncomfortable and left' upon seeing the mock scene. The executive involved had not been seen in the office since the event.
The case highlights the perennial risks of end-of-year functions. HR Legal lawyer Dan Feldman told the Daily Mail that December is a busy period for employment lawyers, with common cases involving sexual harassment, bullying, and violence, often exacerbated by excessive alcohol or drugs. He warned that employers retain a duty of care at off-site, work-sponsored functions, and liability can extend to after-parties if management continues to fund drinks.
