In October, former CEO of Away, Steph Korey, stepped down from her role after facing criticism for her handling of internal company culture. This move came just months after the company’s co-founder, Jen Rubio, took over as CEO following Korey’s initial resignation in December 2019. The shake-up at the luggage company has raised questions about leadership and accountability in the workplace.
Korey’s resignation came after a series of controversies surrounding her management style and treatment of employees. A scathing report by The Verge in December 2019 detailed a toxic work environment at Away, with employees describing long hours, unrealistic expectations, and a culture of fear and intimidation. Korey’s behavior, including berating employees over Slack and fostering a culture of perfectionism, came under intense scrutiny.
Despite initially stepping down as CEO in December 2019, Korey remained with the company as co-CEO alongside Rubio. However, her return to the role in January 2020 sparked further backlash, with many questioning whether she was truly committed to changing the company’s culture. The final straw came in October when Korey posted on social media accusing Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza. The post was met with widespread condemnation, leading to her resignation as CEO.
Rubio, who co-founded Away with Korey in 2015, took over as CEO following Korey’s departure. In a statement announcing her new role, Rubio acknowledged the challenges the company had faced and committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace. She also outlined plans to implement new policies and initiatives to improve employee well-being and foster a more positive company culture.
The leadership changes at Away highlight the importance of accountability and transparency in the workplace. Companies must prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment for their employees, where they feel valued and respected. Toxic work cultures can have a detrimental impact on employee morale, productivity, and overall well-being. It is crucial for leaders to listen to their employees, address concerns promptly, and take action to create a positive work environment.
In recent years, there has been a growing focus on workplace culture and the role of leadership in shaping it. Employees are increasingly demanding more from their employers, including greater transparency, diversity, and inclusion. Companies that fail to prioritize these values risk losing top talent and damaging their reputation.
As companies navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing business landscape, strong leadership is more important than ever. Leaders must be willing to listen, learn, and adapt to meet the needs of their employees and create a culture that fosters growth and success. By prioritizing accountability and transparency, companies can build a strong foundation for long-term success.
The changes at Away serve as a reminder of the importance of leadership in shaping company culture. By holding leaders accountable for their actions and creating a supportive work environment, companies can attract top talent, drive innovation, and achieve long-term success. It is essential for companies to prioritize creating a positive workplace culture that values diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being.