Whistleblower thank-you speech

In light of the investigation of Barclay’s CEO by the British authorities, here is a sample speech that executives can use after receiving an allegation from an anonymous whistleblower:

“We recently received an anonymous allegation of wrongdoing by the company [include details as necessary].

First, I would like to thank the person who had the courage to bring this to our attention. We can’t address the risk we don’t see. Every employee is encouraged to speak up when they see something wrong. In doing so, you are protecting the company from further and greater harm.

Second, I want to assure you that when you protect us so, we will protect you. We will not tolerate retaliation of any kind against anyone who reports an actual or suspected wrongdoing in good faith.

Finally, please note that I instructed everyone involved in the investigation to refrain from any inquiry attempting to uncover the identity of our source. It simply does not matter who raised this issue. Trying to find out who they are can only break the trust we have with them – and with all future sources. That’s a risk we do not want to take.

We are committed to finding the truth about what happened. Only the truth will give us a shot at improving how we do things.

Thank you.”