A former bank manager’s attempt to justify patting a female colleague’s backside as a show of “appreciation” has been slapped down—literally—by the courts. The judge upheld his dismissal, declaring that such conduct has no place in a professional setting.
The dramatic ruling brings closure to a case dating back to May 2016, when a senior manager at Co-operative Bank found himself at the center of a workplace scandal. According to court records, the manager was fired after slapping a female teller’s buttocks at the close of business. His defense? He claimed the gesture was nothing more than a “friendly” and “harmless” way to celebrate a smooth day at work.
Despite serving the bank for nine years and vehemently denying any malicious intent, the court ruled that his actions were inappropriate, unprofessional, and grounds for termination.
“The workplace must remain a space of mutual respect,” the judge ruled, emphasizing that such behavior, even if intended as lighthearted, crosses professional boundaries.
The ruling sends a strong message in the wake of increasing calls for safer, harassment-free workplaces. The former manager, now facing an uncertain career future, has yet to indicate whether he will appeal.
