August 24, 2020

UOW expert commentary: Dr Andy Schmulow says AMP’s problem is culture

UOW expert says AMP needs a leader willing to listen and learn

The handling of a sexual harassment case at AMP has led to the resignation of chairman David Murray. Former Treasury secretary John Fraser has resigned as non-executive director and AMP Capital chief executive Boe Pahari has stood down. Mr Pahari is still working at AMP.

Dr Andy Schmulow from the School of Law at the University of Wollongong says AMP has a problem with culture and this is set by the tone from the top.

“It’s positive that David Murray has stepped down, and John Fraser too, but the continuation of Boe Pahari in any role that puts him in charge of women or people who identify as LGBTQIA is indefensible,” he said.

“To tackle AMP’s glittering death spiral requires a leader who is willing to listen, to learn, and where needs be, unlearn. At the moment they don’t have that.”

Dr Schmulow is also critical of what he says is a witch-hunt against leakers.

“The witch-hunt approach to leakers is indicative of the criticisms and shows a hostile and bullying culture,” he said.

Dr Schmulow is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Law and a prudential regulation expert.

Dr Schmulow is available for interview.

UOW academics exercise academic freedom by providing expert commentary, opinion and analysis on a range of ongoing social issues and current affairs. This expert commentary reflects the views of those individual academics and does not necessarily reflect the views or policy positions of the University of Wollongong.