Jay Blahnik, Apple's vice president of fitness technologies, is set to retire in July after roughly 13 years at the company, following accusations of bullying and creating a toxic work environment. The 57-year-old executive, who helped develop the Apple Watch's fitness features, will step down amid claims that he sexually harassed an employee and fostered a hostile workplace.
According to The New York Times, nine current and former employees alleged that Blahnik had a history of berating and harassing staff. Since 2022, more than 10 of the approximately 100 employees on his team have taken extended mental health or medical leave. Apple previously settled one sexual harassment complaint involving Blahnik.
The company is also facing a lawsuit from former employee Mandana Mofidi, 41, who alleged Blahnik bullied her. Mofidi joined Apple in 2021 and claimed that after raising concerns about unequal pay, she was subjected to retaliation. She said Blahnik shouted at her during a call and that colleagues began criticizing her in emails. Mofidi later took medical leave after Apple's employee health app determined she was experiencing anxiety and depression.
When her leave ended, Mofidi requested a transfer to a different division to avoid the 'same toxic environment,' but the request was denied, prompting her resignation. Apple's internal investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing by Blahnik, and he remained in his role. Mofidi's case against Apple and Blahnik is set to go to trial next year.
